Translation guide
The English word 'nominal' has several distinct meanings: 'in name only', 'very small (fee/amount)', and 'relating to nouns'. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each.
He is merely the nominal president.
Emphasizes that something is done as a formality, without real substance. Often used for procedures or roles.
That's a nominal position.
Literally 'decorative', used colloquially for a figurehead with no real authority. Can sound dismissive.
That chairman is just a nominal figurehead.
Describing a fee, rent, or amount that is extremely low, often symbolic.
Means 'a small amount of'. Natural for describing nominal fees or sums.
You can use it for a nominal fee.
Directly translates 'nominal' in economic contexts, implying the amount is symbolic rather than market-based.
More formal, meaning 'extremely small amount'. Used in official or written contexts.
Referring to the grammatical category of nouns or noun-like elements.
While 名目的な (meimokuteki na) can be used for 'nominal fee', わずかな (wazuka na) is more common and natural in everyday Japanese. Using 名目的な may sound overly formal or technical.
You can use it for a nominal fee.
A nominal handling fee will be charged.
We ask for a nominal donation.