a token amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a token amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a small or nominal amount, often given to signify a gesture rather than a substantial contribution. Example: "To show our appreciation, we will provide a token amount as a thank you for your support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Nepalese government spends a token amount (0.08%) of its total healthcare budget on mental health.

The Guardian - Opinion

Most important, that means slashing subsidies by more than a token amount.

The Economist

"The developer," he said, "has just paid a token amount, enough for rice, since January".

The New York Times

He was offered a token amount, a few thousand dollars, and he turned it down".

The New York Times

All this helps explain why Moscow has so far been reluctant to reduce exports by more than a token amount.

The New York Times

"This is a token amount of money that doesn't really reflect the value of the project," he said.

The New York Times

The writers were paid about $20, and most of the editors worked free or for a token amount.

The New York Times - Arts

A rematch is possible in that race, although Ms. McSally raised only a token amount in the first quarter.

The New York Times

While the state did extract some restitution for victims, critics say it is only a token amount of Delta's $1 billion-a-year billion-a-year billion-a-year

The New York Times

Wild-Eyed & Wicked's owners, Joe and Sally Jackson of Overland Park, Kan., had insured him, but only for a token amount, the Lopezes said.

The New York Times

There is a token amount of social housing on these new estates, but we don't have much else in the way of affordable housing.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a token amount", ensure the context clearly indicates that the amount is deliberately small, either as a symbolic gesture or because a larger amount is unnecessary or unavailable.

Common error

Avoid using "a token amount" when you actually mean a significant but still insufficient amount. The phrase specifically implies a deliberately small, often symbolic, quantity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a token amount" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as an object or complement within a sentence. Ludwig indicates its widespread use in describing small, often symbolic, quantities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a token amount" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for describing a deliberately small quantity, often serving a symbolic purpose. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and prevalence across various writing styles. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media, as well as formal business contexts. When using "a token amount", be mindful of its specific connotation, ensuring that the context aligns with the intent of conveying insignificance or symbolic value. Consider alternatives such as "a nominal sum" or "a symbolic gesture" depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a nominal sum

Replaces "amount" with "sum", emphasizing the monetary aspect of the small quantity.

a symbolic gesture

Shifts the focus from the quantity to the symbolic meaning behind the small amount.

a pittance

Implies an even smaller and more insignificant amount than "a token amount".

a trivial quantity

Highlights the insignificance of the amount in terms of its overall impact.

a mere fraction

Emphasizes that the amount is a very small part of a larger whole.

a negligible quantity

Indicates that the amount is so small it can be disregarded.

a trifling sum

Similar to "a nominal sum" but carries a slightly more dismissive tone.

an insignificant portion

Focuses on the amount as a small part of something larger, similar to "a mere fraction".

a drop in the bucket

An idiomatic expression that conveys the idea of a very small and insignificant amount compared to what's needed.

a peppercorn

Refers to a very small payment, especially in legal contexts, to satisfy the requirements for a valid contract.

FAQs

How can I use "a token amount" in a sentence?

Use "a token amount" to describe a small quantity that is offered or given, often for symbolic purposes. For example, "The company offered "a token amount" as compensation for the inconvenience."

What can I say instead of "a token amount"?

You can use alternatives like "a nominal sum", "a symbolic gesture", or "a pittance" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a token amount" in formal writing?

Yes, "a token amount" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing financial or legal situations where a small amount is deliberately used. However, consider using more precise language if the exact amount is relevant.

What's the difference between "a token amount" and "a small amount"?

"A small amount" simply indicates a quantity that is not large. "A token amount" implies that the small quantity is symbolic or deliberately limited, not just incidentally small.