New York bar's sign warns patrons not to say 'literally'

Jan. 26 (UPI) -- A New York bar is drawing attention online for signs posted outlining its latest policy change -- a ban on the word "literally."

Signs posted outside and inside Continental in Manhattan's East Village warn patrons that they could be ejected from the drinking establishment if they dare to utter the word.

The sign reads:

"Sorry, but if you say the word 'literally' inside Continental, you have five minutes to finish your drink and then you must leave.

If you actually start a sentence with 'literally' you must leave immediately!!!

This is the most overused, annoying word in the English language and we will not tolerate it.

Stop Kardashianism now!"

Trigger Smith, the owner of the bar, said the policy is meant to be "tongue-in-cheek."

"I'm just trying to shake things up a little and possibly enlighten people to be a little more respectful of the English language," he told WPIX-TV. "We are not Literally throwing people out. Yet!"

Some have accused Smith of sexism, saying the sign is designed to specifically target young women, but he brushed aside the criticism.

"Anybody who knows me knows I'm a feminist who supports women's rights and is 100 percent behind this whole 'Me Too' thing. I guess people will find an issue in anything," he told Grub Street.