for a token act

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for a token act" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that is performed merely to show compliance or to give the appearance of doing something, without any real commitment or effort. Example: "The company made a donation to charity, but it was just for a token act to improve its public image."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I will not settle for a token act.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

If a token acts like equity, for example, it's probably something like a security.

TechCrunch

Officials said that they were confident that because the land would be used for educational purposes, not profit, President Bush would be able to give the land to New York for a token fee despite an act of Congress that requires the federal government to get full market value, which is up to $500 million.

The New York Times

An interesting aspect of the token transfer procedure is the number of requests generated for a token during each iteration.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

He asked Osborne, in effect, for a token of seriousness.

The Guardian

To allot just one evening for a token dip into the waters of world music is just that – a token".

Independent

You don't have to be starving to feel that two dollars is a lot to pay for a token, especially now that you don't actually get the token (tokens were eliminated last week, too).

The New Yorker

In Malawi all citizens are issued with a "health passport" for a token fee.

Human Resources for Health

But even if I'm a token, I won't have to act like one.

The New York Times - Magazine

While admitting the concerns the intersex movement have been raising for years shows promise for future legislation, it suggests that the proposed reforms to the Gender Recognition Act only represent a token amendment to the laws.

Vice

And for that they deserve a token of my gratitude.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for a token act" when you want to emphasize that an action is performed merely to fulfill an obligation or create an impression without substantial commitment. Consider alternative phrases like "as a symbolic gesture" or "as a mere formality" if the context requires a different nuance.

Common error

Avoid using "for a token act" in casual or informal conversations. This phrase is better suited for formal writing or when discussing strategic or political actions. In everyday speech, simpler phrases are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a token act" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, describing the manner in which an action is performed. It indicates that the action is done superficially or symbolically rather than with genuine intent. Ludwig confirms this usage, showing it modifies verbs to express the insincerity or superficiality of actions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for a token act" is used to describe actions performed superficially, primarily to fulfill an obligation or create a certain impression without genuine commitment. Ludwig AI identifies its grammatical correctness and suitability for formal contexts. While relatively rare, the phrase effectively conveys skepticism or criticism regarding the true value of an action. Alternative phrases such as ""as a symbolic gesture"" or ""as a mere formality"" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure that the context aligns with its formal register and critical undertones.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a symbolic gesture

This alternative focuses on the action being representative rather than substantial.

as a mere formality

Highlights the action as complying with rules or expectations without real intention.

for appearances' sake

This phrase emphasizes the intention to create a certain impression.

in nominal compliance

Indicates compliance that is only technical or in name.

to pay lip service

Implies insincere agreement or support shown through words but not actions.

as a superficial action

Highlights that the action is shallow and lacks depth.

as a perfunctory measure

Suggests that the action is carried out with minimal effort or enthusiasm.

to go through the motions

Implies performing an action without genuine engagement or commitment.

as a gesture of compliance

Focuses on the act as a signal of obedience or adherence to rules.

for the sake of appearances

Similar to "for appearances' sake", emphasizing the creation of an impression.

FAQs

How can I use "for a token act" in a sentence?

You can use "for a token act" to describe an action performed merely to show compliance or give the appearance of doing something, without real commitment. For example: "The donation was "as a symbolic gesture" rather than a sincere effort to help."

What's a more common alternative to "for a token act"?

Alternatives include "as a mere formality", "for appearances' sake", or to "pay lip service", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "for a token act" the same as "a symbolic gesture"?

While similar, "for a token act" often implies a degree of insincerity or superficiality, suggesting the action is done more out of obligation than genuine intent. "As a symbolic gesture" is more neutral, simply indicating that the action represents something else.

When is it appropriate to use "for a token act" in writing?

It's appropriate in formal contexts, such as news articles, business reports, or academic papers, where you need to describe an action that lacks genuine commitment or is performed primarily to fulfill an obligation or create a certain impression.