notional
UK: ˈnəʊʃənl | US: ˈnoʊʃənl
adj. relating to or based on ideas or concepts rather than concrete realities
adj. existing only in theory or as a suggestion; hypothetical
adj. (Finance) denoting a value assigned for calculation purposes but not representing actual transactions
The word "notional" derives from the Late Latin "notionalis," which stems from "notio" (a concept or idea). The root "notion" entered English via Old French, retaining its core meaning of an abstract idea. The suffix "-al" (from Latin "-alis") transforms it into an adjective, emphasizing its theoretical or conceptual nature. Over time, "notional" evolved to describe hypothetical scenarios (e.g., financial models) while preserving its original link to abstract thought.
The contract included a notional fee, pending final approval.
Her argument was based on notional assumptions rather than empirical data.
In economics, notional GDP estimates often guide policy decisions.
The proposal remained a notional plan without funding.
Philosophers debate notional boundaries between consciousness and AI.