for a token amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for a token amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a small or nominal sum of money, often in a context where the amount is not significant but serves a purpose. Example: "The service was provided for a token amount, making it accessible to everyone in the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

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

The New York Times - Arts

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

Julie Ann's mission is to persuade Rose to give up her property for a token amount, which Julie Ann is sure she'll be able to do because of their close relationship.

The New York Times

Ford was reported to have been looking for a token amount in return for a purchaser taking over the running costs of its 300-strong Milton Keynes-based team.

The Guardian - Business

After the tax benefit period runs out, the investors would return the building to the city for a token amount, Library Commissioner Ron Lushing said.

Los Angeles Times

This is always a fun one - a gift for a token amount for each person from someone unknown.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

About 60,000 will be issued this year, twice the number for 2010 but still a token amount for a population of 2.5 million.

The New York Times

In today's digital world, physical gifts are a much grander gesture than gift cards or credits, so for more minor celebrations, a token amount of $10 for a smoothie or two may make more sense.

TechCrunch

Radio sources say that small- and medium-market stations still get Limbaugh's show for free, or pay only a token amount of cash for it.

Huffington Post

Kagame has always denied any wrongdoing in Congo and strenuously rejected the claim that his government ordered troops into that nation last year, but the United States promptly cut $200,000 in military aid to Rwanda, a token amount, for sure, but a damning signal nonetheless.

The New York Times - Magazine

The fine was only a token amount for a billionaire, just $2.5m £1.5mm), but it was the maximum permissible under the NBA's internal regulations.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for a token amount" to convey that the monetary value is less important than the principle or symbolic value behind a transaction or exchange. This is particularly effective in contexts where goodwill or continued association is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "for a token amount" when the sum actually represents a significant portion of the overall cost or value. This diminishes the impact of situations where real savings or contributions are involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a token amount" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It specifies the cost or payment involved, emphasizing that it is minimal and often symbolic, in line with Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for a token amount" is a prepositional phrase used to describe a payment or cost that is very small, often symbolic, and not representative of the true value of what is being exchanged. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and generally used to highlight the minimal financial aspect of a transaction, focusing instead on other considerations like goodwill or formal agreements. While "for a nominal fee" or "for a small sum" can be used as alternatives, "for a token amount" uniquely emphasizes the symbolic nature of the payment. It is most commonly found in News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

For a nominal fee

Focuses on the fee being small and almost symbolic, rather than its actual worth.

For a small sum

Highlights the insignificant monetary value exchanged.

For a peppercorn rent

An idiomatic term in property law for a very low rent, often used to maintain a legal agreement.

For a trifling sum

Emphasizes how insignificant the amount is.

For next to nothing

Indicates something obtained at a minimal cost.

At a bargain price

Highlights the advantageous cost from the buyer's perspective.

For a symbolic payment

Focuses on the payment's symbolic significance rather than its financial value.

For a mere pittance

Highlights the smallness of the payment, implying it is inadequate.

For a song

Implies getting something at a very low or reduced price.

For a fractional cost

Emphasizes the small fraction of the original value that is paid.

FAQs

What does "for a token amount" mean?

The phrase "for a token amount" indicates that something is exchanged for a very small, often symbolic, sum of money. The amount is not substantial, but serves to formalize an agreement or transaction.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "for a token amount"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that the monetary value is negligible compared to the overall value or purpose. This often applies to symbolic gestures, formal agreements, or situations where affordability is a key factor.

What are some alternatives to saying "for a token amount"?

You can use alternatives like "for a nominal fee", "for a small sum", or "for next to nothing", depending on the specific context and the degree of emphasis you want to place on the low value.

How does "for a token amount" differ from "at a reduced price"?

"For a token amount" suggests the price is almost symbolic, whereas "at a reduced price" indicates a real, but lower, cost. The former implies the money is secondary to another purpose, while the latter is about affordability or a discount.