In his preface, Young describes the translation as a companion for study rather than a substitute for ordinary reading. His stated method gives special attention to consistent rendering of recurring source words and to distinctions in Hebrew grammar. This was a deliberate response to how more idiomatic English versions sometimes vary their wording.
The title’s “literal” promise should be understood as Young’s method, not as a claim that translation is interpretation-free. A translator must still choose English words, syntax and reference. Young’s own preface explains why he believes close formal consistency can help readers examine the source text.