Notional

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈnəʊʃənəl/

Definitions

  1. Existing only as an idea or concept rather than in reality; theoretical or imaginary rather than actual
  2. Pertaining to concepts or ideas rather than tangible realities | Existing in thought or imagination but not necessarily in reality | Relating to abstract ideas rather than concrete or practical applications
  3. Existing predominantly in the realm of ideas rather than in practical existence

Etymology: The adjective in question traces its roots back to the late 16th century, emerging from the noun "notion," which itself derives from the Latin "notio," meaning "a conception" or "idea." This Latin term stems from "noscere," meaning "to know," suggesting an original connection with knowledge or understanding. Early English usage of "notion" focused on an individual's mental apprehension or conception of something, often a somewhat vague or general idea. The suffix "-al," common in English for forming adjectives, was added to "notion" to create an adjectival form that means "related to or characterized by notions or ideas." This formation likely took hold in the 17th century as English expanded its vocabulary to describe intangible or abstract qualities. The word thus came to describe something based on or pertaining to ideas rather than physical reality or concrete experience. Over time, the adjective developed a more nuanced range of meanings. It often conveys something theoretical, conceptual, or hypothetical—as opposed to practical or actual. For example, something described as "notional" might exist only in theory or as a mental construct, highlighting the detachment from physical existence or direct evidence. This sense aligns with the original Latin roots emphasizing knowledge and conceptual understanding. The term also found use in fields like linguistics, philosophy, and economics, where abstract categories or assumed constructs are frequently discussed. In these contexts, it helps distinguish between what is imagined or assumed and what is empirically verified, underscoring the word’s evolution from a simple relation to "notion" to a precise technical adjective.

Synonyms: theoretical, abstract, hypothetical, imaginary, conceptual

Antonyms: practical, actual, real, concrete