nominal
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nominal
Refers to a value that has not been adjusted for influences such as inflation. The opposite is 'real'.
Das nominelle Wirtschaftswachstum betrug 3 %, das reale Wachstum nach Abzug der Inflation jedoch nur 1 %.
Nominal economic growth was 3%, but real growth after deducting inflation was only 1%.
nominal
In name or form, but not corresponding to the actual significance or power; existing only on paper.
Obwohl er nominell der Chef ist, werden alle wichtigen Entscheidungen von seiner Stellvertreterin getroffen.
Although he is nominally the boss, all important decisions are made by his deputy.
The word comes from the Latin 'nomen' (name). 'Nominell' (nominal) therefore literally means 'in name'. This origin helps you understand both meanings: something is so only in name, but not in reality.
Die nominelle Gebühr ist niedrig, aber es gibt viele versteckte Kosten.
The nominal fee is low, but there are many hidden costs.
You can easily recognize the meaning from the context. In economics and finance, 'nominell' (nominal) means 'not adjusted for inflation' and stands in contrast to 'real' (real). In social or political contexts, it means 'only on paper' and stands in contrast to 'faktisch' (de facto) or 'tatsächlich' (actual).
Sein nominelles Gehalt ist gestiegen, aber real kann er sich weniger leisten.
His nominal salary has increased, but in real terms he can afford less.
In an economic context, 'nominell' (nominal) is often combined with words that describe a monetary value or a rate. Typical examples are 'der nominelle Wert' (the nominal value), 'das nominelle Einkommen' (nominal income), or 'das nominelle Wachstum' (nominal growth).
Die nominellen Zinsen sind hoch, aber die Inflation ist noch höher.
Nominal interest rates are high, but inflation is even higher.
When it comes to roles or power, 'nominell' (nominal) describes a formal but not actual position. Common combinations are 'der nominelle Anführer' (the nominal leader), 'die nominelle Kontrolle' (nominal control), or 'nominell unabhängig' (nominally independent).
Das Land ist nominell unabhängig, wird aber stark von seinem Nachbarn beeinflusst.
The country is nominally independent, but it is strongly influenced by its neighbor.
symbolic
Both words can be used for a very small price. A symbolic price is primarily a sign or gesture, whereas a nominal amount exists only in name or on paper. Use “symbolisch” when the gesture is important, and “nominell” when the stated amount is the focus.
Der nominelle Preis der alten Vase betrug zwar einen Euro, aber ihr Wert war viel höher.
The nominal price of the old vase was indeed one euro, but its value was much higher.
Für die alte Vase verlangte sie nur einen symbolischen Preis von einem Euro.
She asked only a token price of one euro for the old vase.
