Used to intensify or dramatize non-figurative statements.
Word for word; not figuratively; not as an idiom or metaphor.
Used as a generic downtoner: just, merely.
Used non-literally as an intensifier for figurative statements: virtually, so to speak (often considered incorrect; see usage notes)
really; seriously; used to attempt to introduce a serious point in a less serious conversation
no kidding!; is that so? (sometimes used sarcastically in response to the obvious)