What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nominal
Example
The fee for the service is nominal. [nominal: adjective]
Example
He holds the nominal title of CEO, but the real decision-making power lies with the board. [nominal: adjective]
Example
The nominal size of the screw is 1/4 inch, but it actually measures slightly smaller. [nominal: adjective]
name
Example
What's your name? [name: noun]
Example
The company has made a name for itself in the tech industry. [name: noun]
Example
She was named after her grandmother. [named: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Name is a more common word than nominal in everyday language, as it is used frequently in daily communication. Nominal is more commonly used in technical or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nominal and name?
Nominal is typically associated with a more formal tone due to its technical or academic usage, while name is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.