notional

• Relatif à une idée ou à un concept ; qui n'existe qu'en théorie ou dans l'imagination, et non dans la réalité.

Relating to an idea or concept; existing only in theory or imagination, rather than in reality.

1. Existing only in theory or ideaC1formal

   Relating to or based on a concept or idea rather than concrete reality.

   notionnel (sens 1)

   • The budget was based on a notional figure, not actual costs.
   • His argument was purely notional and lacked evidence.
   • The plan remained notional until funding was secured.

   Synonymesabstractconceptualhypotheticalidealimaginaryspeculativesuppositionaltheoretical

   Antonymesactualconcretematerialrealsubstantive

2. Imaginary or unrealC1formal

   Not based on fact; existing only in the imagination.

   irréel, imaginaire

   • The threat was notional, not a real danger.
   • She had a notional fear of failure that held her back.
   • The story was a notional account of events that never happened.

   Synonymesconceptualfancifulfictitioushypotheticalillusoryimaginaryunreal

   Antonymesactualconcretefactualreal

3. Fanciful or speculativeC2formal

   Indulging in or influenced by fancy; speculative rather than practical.

   Fictif, spéculatif

   • His notional ideas about the future were entertaining but unrealistic.
   • The artist's work was highly notional, full of abstract concepts.
   • They dismissed the proposal as notional and impractical.

   Synonymesconjecturalfancifulhypotheticalimaginaryspeculativetheoreticalunreal

   Antonymesactualconcretefactualpracticalrealrealistic