Notional: meaning, example and synonyms

Notionaladj. Existing only as an idea or in theory, not in reality.

Flashcard for Notional (adjective): existing only as an idea or in theory, not in reality. Example: The treaty set a notional border across the desert, but no one marked it on the ground, so herders crossed it without knowing. Synonyms: theoretical, hypothetical, abstract, conceptual. Antonyms: actual, real, concrete, tangible. Memory tip: Notional = only a notion: an idea, not a thing. Illustration: a dotted imaginary line drawn faintly across empty desert sand dunes with camels walking across it.

Example

The treaty set a notional border across the desert, but no one marked it on the ground, so herders crossed it without knowing.

Part of speech
adjective
Synonyms
theoretical, hypothetical, abstract, conceptual
Antonyms
actual, real, concrete, tangible
Memory tip
Notional = only a notion: an idea, not a thing.

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Check yourself: Notional in context

Pick the word that best completes each text, as on the SAT's words-in-context questions.

Question 1

The budget included a ______ figure for repairs, a rough estimate that officials admitted had no detailed plan behind it.

Question 2

Although the two towns are ______ rivals, residents freely shop, work and marry across the border without any real tension.

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