a nominal tax

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a nominal tax" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a tax that is relatively small or insignificant in amount, often used in discussions about taxation policies or financial matters. Example: "The government implemented a nominal tax on small businesses to encourage growth without imposing a heavy financial burden."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

She paid a nominal tax, about 25 cents a day, for the spot.

The New York Times

Thus, a nominal tax rate has been approached when any incentive to evade taxes simply vanishes.

The Economist

A nominal tax is payable based on the assessment prior to the construction.

The New York Times

QUESTION FROM FREDDY M.: In the US, are there really any advantages for men to get married (aside, perhaps, from a nominal tax break)?

The New Yorker

This is by no means an unreasonable federal tax bill for someone making $81,000 a year — in fact, it's a nominal tax rate of only 14percentt.

The Washington Post

The bungalow rates are about $87, including Continental breakfast, plus a nominal tax of 50 cents a day per person; [phone]) for reservations or 011 (596) 7 64014, fax [phone]

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

A nominal $5-$5-$10x is added to each individual state income tax return annually, a small price to end the huge money chase and influence-peddling of modern elections.

Huffington Post

The competition for mobile capital has transformed every would-be global city into a tax haven, eroding real and nominal tax rates, enhancing global wealth and income inequalities.

The Guardian

Given the frequency of below-market assessments, nominal tax rates give a misleading impression of the tax burden shouldered by property owners.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The appropriate analogy, therefore, is that of a state law requiring purchasers of religious books to endure a 24-hour waiting period, or to pay a nominal additional tax of 1.

Cornell University

When the Tory grandee Sir George Young said Lord Ashcroft was actually a "non-dom", paying a nominal UK tax bill but allowed to avoid any levy on overseas assets, the Tories quickly said he had "mis-spoken".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, specify the exact amount or percentage of the "nominal tax" when possible. Providing concrete figures makes the degree of insignificance more tangible for the reader or listener.

Common error

Avoid using "a nominal tax" when the tax is completely zero or non-existent. "Nominal" implies a small amount, whereas "negligible" suggests it's so small it's practically zero, but not literally zero. Choose the term that accurately represents the amount of the tax.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a nominal tax" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific type of tax characterized by its insignificance in amount. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples illustrating its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a nominal tax" is a noun phrase denoting a tax that is very small or insignificant in amount. As Ludwig AI's analysis shows, the phrase is grammatically correct and most frequently found in news and media, followed by science. It serves to communicate that the tax is low in value, often for regulatory purposes rather than revenue generation. While alternatives like "a minimal tax" or "a token tax" exist, the key is to use the term that accurately reflects the insignificance of the tax being discussed. Remember to not confuse "nominal" with "negligible". Ensure the context clearly indicates the relative smallness of the tax. Being mindful of these nuances will enhance the clarity and precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a minimal tax

Emphasizes the tax is very small in amount.

a small tax

Highlights the low monetary value of the tax.

a token tax

Suggests the tax is more symbolic than substantial.

a slight tax

Indicates a barely noticeable tax.

a negligible tax

Implies the tax is so small it's almost not worth considering.

a symbolic tax

Focuses on the tax's representative rather than financial impact.

a reduced tax

Highlights a tax that has been decreased.

a discounted tax

Refers to tax that has been lowered, frequently as incentive.

a light tax

Conveys the idea of a tax that isn't burdensome.

a modest tax

Suggests the tax is reasonable and not excessive.

FAQs

How is "a nominal tax" used in legal or financial contexts?

In legal and financial settings, "a nominal tax" typically refers to a very small or symbolic tax imposed for regulatory or administrative purposes, rather than for significant revenue generation. It's often used to maintain compliance without creating a financial burden.

What are some synonyms for "a nominal tax"?

Alternatives to "a nominal tax" include "a minimal tax", "a small tax", "a token tax", or "a slight tax", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Each emphasizes the insignificant amount of the tax.

How does "a nominal tax" differ from a standard tax?

"A nominal tax" is significantly smaller and often serves a different purpose than a standard tax. Standard taxes aim to raise substantial revenue, while "a nominal tax" might be implemented for regulatory reasons or to establish a legal basis for oversight without imposing a financial hardship.

Can you provide an example of how "a nominal tax" is applied?

A local government might impose "a nominal tax" on short-term rental properties to ensure they comply with safety regulations and maintain proper licensing. The tax is small enough to not deter rentals but sufficient to fund inspections and administrative costs.