at a nominal fee

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a nominal fee" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a small or minimal charge for a service or product. Example: "The workshop will be available to participants at a nominal fee of $10."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Airlines shouldn't be handing out special service at a nominal fee just because someone seems "special".

The Economist

It could be more memorable to step up to a bar in a visitors center and taste one's way through a brace of them at a nominal fee.

The New York Times

The hotel does not have a restaurant, but it does serve a basic breakfast at a nominal fee and is happy to order in meals from neighbouring eateries.

The Guardian - Travel

The unique split-level units were then let to artists at a nominal fee, but more recently, rental hikes have been forcing tenants out.

The Guardian

He has sometimes agreed to sing at a nominal fee for new, nonprofit folk societies, however, and he has often performed without charge at civil-rights rallies.

The New Yorker

While Mellow Johnny's is a for-profit endeavor, Knaggs says he hopes that offering "one bazillion" bicycle-parking spaces at a nominal fee will have a positive environmental impact.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Even the company itself describes the charge as "a nominal fee".

The Guardian - Tech

Our city should follow the examples of the Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo parks departments and require at least a nominal fee for events put on by the public at Nibley.

Los Angeles Times

This finding suggests that when trying to minimize barriers to participation (by making enrollment free or low cost), participation and course completion may be enhanced by requiring at least a nominal fee.

BMC Medical Education

Withdrawn candidates should note that Harvard alumni are eligible for both borrowing and stack access privileges at Widener (arrangements can be made with the library privileges desk at Widener for a nominal fee) and several other Harvard libraries.

Harvard University

Having been judged surplus by Watford manager Aidy Boothroyd, in 2005 joined Coppell at Reading for a nominal fee.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at a nominal fee" when you want to convey that a service or item is being offered at a very low cost, often just to cover basic expenses or as a symbolic charge.

Common error

Avoid using "at a nominal fee" if the cost is genuinely free or if the charge is significant enough to deter potential users. Ensure the fee is truly minimal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at a nominal fee" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or verb phrase to indicate the cost associated with an action or service. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

20%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at a nominal fee" is a useful way to communicate that something is available for a very small cost. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct. Its usage is common across various contexts, but it is particularly prevalent in news and media, academia, and scientific publications. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that the fee truly is minimal and doesn't create a barrier to access. Consider alternatives like "for a small charge" or "for a token payment" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for a minimal fee

Synonymous with "nominal fee", emphasizing the fee's insignificance.

for a small charge

Replaces "nominal fee" with a more general term for a small cost.

for a negligible sum

Emphasizes the unimportance of the amount being paid.

for a token payment

Highlights the symbolic nature of the payment rather than its amount.

for a trifling amount

Similar to "negligible sum", stressing the insignificance of the fee.

at a reduced rate

Focuses on the discounted aspect of the fee.

at a discounted price

Highlights the reduction in price compared to the standard rate.

at a subsidized cost

Suggests that the cost is being partially covered by another entity.

for next to nothing

An informal way of saying the cost is extremely low.

at a bargain price

Suggests the price is unusually low and advantageous.

FAQs

How can I use "at a nominal fee" in a sentence?

You can use "at a nominal fee" to indicate that something is offered for a very small charge. For example, "The museum offers guided tours "at a nominal fee".".

What does "at a nominal fee" mean?

"At a nominal fee" means that something is available for a very low or symbolic cost, often just enough to cover expenses.

What's the difference between "at a nominal fee" and "free"?

"At a nominal fee" implies a very small charge, while "free" means there is no cost at all. If something is available "at a nominal fee", there is still a cost involved, however small.

What are some alternatives to using "at a nominal fee"?

Some alternatives to "at a nominal fee" include "for a small charge", "for a minimal fee", or "for a token payment". The best choice depends on the specific context.