Notionally

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

  1. In a way that is theoretical or symbolic rather than practical | In a manner that relates to ideas or concepts rather than reality | Pertaining to something conceived in thought rather than in actual application
  2. In a manner that emphasizes conceptual understanding over practical execution
  3. Relating to ideas or principles in a theoretical rather than tangible sense

Etymology: The term "notionally" is derived from "notion," which has its roots in the Latin word "notio," meaning "a concept" or "a thought." This Latin term itself comes from the verb "nosco," meaning "to know." In its journey to modern English, "notion" found its way through Old French as "notion," which was adopted in the 14th century. The adverbial form "notionally," meaning in a theoretical or conceptual manner, emerged in the 19th century, reflecting a shift towards abstract thinking and discussion in various fields, including philosophy and science. One notable aspect of this term is its use in contexts where distinctions between what is true and what is merely a theoretical framework are explored. For instance, in discussions of economics or philosophy, something may be described as "notional" to indicate that it exists only as an idea or hypothesis rather than a tangible reality. This usage emphasizes the distinction between the conceptual and the practical, allowing speakers and writers to articulate complex ideas with clarity. The evolution of "notionally" highlights the broader linguistic trend in English of creating adverbs from nouns, particularly during the 19th century when precision in language became increasingly valued. As abstract concepts gained importance in intellectual discourse, the need for an adverb that could encapsulate the essence of theoretical or hypothetical discussion became apparent. Thus, "notionally" serves as a linguistic bridge between concrete understanding and abstract reasoning, allowing for nuanced conversation around ideas that may not have a physical manifestation.

Synonyms: theoretically, hypothetically, presumably, conceptually, supposedly

Antonyms: actually, practically, realistically