Nominal: meaning, definitions and examples

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nominal

 

[ ˈnɒmɪnəl ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

formal usage

The term 'nominal' refers to something that is named or stated, often without reflecting the actual value or importance. In economics, it can also pertain to amounts that are not adjusted for inflation. In a broader sense, it may describe something that exists in name only, such as a nominal leader who has little real power.

Synonyms

named, symbolic, titular

Examples of usage

  • The nominal value of the currency is not reflective of its purchasing power.
  • He held a nominal position in the company, but had no real authority.
  • The nominal fee for the service was much lower than expected.
Context #2 | Noun

business term

In a business context, 'nominal' can refer to a designation or title that holds specific significance but may not involve actual responsibilities or functions. This can be seen in roles where individuals have little to no decision-making power but are still recognized in title. Nominal roles can sometimes create a façade of leadership or authority.

Synonyms

designation, role, title

Examples of usage

  • She was assigned a nominal role in the project to satisfy legal requirements.
  • The company's nominal president rarely attended meetings.
  • Nominal titles can sometimes mislead stakeholders about who is in charge.

Translations

Translations of the word "nominal" in other languages:

🇵🇹 nominal

🇮🇳 नाममात्र

🇩🇪 nominell

🇮🇩 nominal

🇺🇦 номінальний

🇵🇱 nominalny

🇯🇵 名目上の

🇫🇷 nominal

🇪🇸 nominal

🇹🇷 nominal

🇰🇷 명목상의

🇸🇦 اسمي

🇨🇿 nominalní

🇸🇰 nominalný

🇨🇳 名义的

🇸🇮 nominalni

🇮🇸 nafnlegra

🇰🇿 номиналды

🇬🇪 ნომინალური

🇦🇿 nominal

🇲🇽 nominal

Word origin

The word 'nominal' originates from the Latin word 'nominalis,' which means 'pertaining to names.' The root 'nomen' translates to 'name,' reflecting the term's connection to nomenclature, or the system of naming things. Over time, it evolved into English usage, first appearing in the 15th century. Initially associated with names and titles, it gained prominence in various fields, particularly in economics during the 19th century. The use of 'nominal' to describe values not adjusted for inflation emerged in financial discourse, highlighting the distinction between raw figures and actual economic impact. Its application in business contexts evolved subsequently, denoting positions of titles that may lack real influence. As the word spread into everyday language, it retained its core meaning of association with names, further enriching the English lexicon.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,800, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.