a nominal sum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a nominal sum" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a small or insignificant amount of money, often in a financial context. Example: "The company charged a nominal sum for the service, making it accessible to everyone."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Legislators are paid only a nominal sum.

The Economist

This asset was created for a nominal sum of £1.

The Guardian - Opinion

"There was a nominal sum but no, I wasn't tempted to sell it.

The Guardian

The couple are seeking a nominal sum of £1 each and an apology from each party.

The Guardian

He said the matter was settled with the agency for a "nominal" sum.

The New York Times

The joint venture was also given 239.95 acres of land for a nominal sum.

The New York Times

The perception grew after the midfielder's move to Stockport County for a nominal sum in 1994.

Independent

It even allows the independent assessor to reduce payments to a nominal sum on account of previous convictions.

The Guardian - Opinion

OpCapita acquired electrical retailer Comet from its owner Kesa Electricals last year for a nominal sum of £2.

The Guardian - Business

STV, Scotland's ITV licensee, has sold cinema advertising business Pearl & Dean for a nominal sum of £1.

The Guardian

Wimbledon could be sold for a nominal sum or even declared bankrupt, according to the club's owner Bjorn Rune Gjelsten.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a nominal sum", ensure the context clearly indicates that the amount is insignificant relative to the transaction or situation. For example, "They acquired the company for a nominal sum, but assumed all its debt."

Common error

Avoid using "a nominal sum" when you simply mean a standard or typical amount. "Nominal" implies the sum is far below what is usually expected or what something is worth.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a nominal sum" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "sum". It describes the nature of the sum, indicating that it is very small or insignificant. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and suitable for use in English writing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a nominal sum" is a phrase used to describe a very small or insignificant amount of money. As Ludwig AI states, it is correct and usable in written English, typically in financial contexts. It's commonly found in news and media, as well as formal and business settings. While interchangeable with phrases like "a small consideration" or "a token amount", it's important to use it when the sum is truly insignificant, not merely small. Avoid confusing "nominal" with "normal". The phrase is useful for communicating that a transaction is more symbolic than financially driven.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a trifling amount

Emphasizes the insignificance and smallness of the sum.

a symbolic payment

Highlights that the payment's value is more representative than substantial.

a token amount

Suggests the sum is given as a gesture rather than for its intrinsic value.

a small consideration

Indicates a minor payment, often in exchange for something of greater value.

a peppercorn rent

A legal term for a very low rent, often used to maintain a contract.

a minimal fee

Focuses on the small cost associated with a service or product.

a negligible expense

Highlights the insignificance of the cost in relation to overall finances.

a mere pittance

Emphasizes the inadequacy of the amount of money.

a trivial sum

Highlights that the money has little to no importance.

a discounted price

Indicates a lower price compared to the normal one.

FAQs

How can I use "a nominal sum" in a sentence?

Use "a nominal sum" to describe an amount of money that is very small or insignificant compared to the actual value or cost. For example, "The land was sold for "a nominal sum" due to its environmental issues".

What's the difference between "a nominal sum" and "a small sum"?

"A nominal sum" implies the amount is so small it's almost symbolic, whereas "a small sum" simply means it's not a large amount but could still be meaningful in context. "A nominal sum" often suggests a token payment.

What can I say instead of "a nominal sum"?

You can use alternatives like "a trifling amount", "a token amount", or "a minimal fee" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a nominal sum" in formal writing?

Yes, it's appropriate. "A nominal sum" is readily found in formal and business contexts, as well as news media, to describe transactions or costs that are deliberately set very low.