nominal sentence

American  

noun

Grammar.

1. a sentence consisting of a subject and complement without a linking verb, as Very interesting, those books.

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Etymology

Origin of nominal sentence

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

The former civil servant had her nominal sentence of 87 years halved because she pleaded guilty.

From Washington Times

The interference of courts of justice with religious opinions had immensely decreased, and it is now reviving; but it is in your Lordship's power to annihilate it by passings nominal sentence on the defendant.

From Project Gutenberg

They might make all the difference between a nominal sentence as a first offender and five years' penal servitude as an habitual criminal, to say nothing of police supervision afterwards.

From Project Gutenberg

Though, if he can invent for the paramour a German name, he will still receive but a nominal sentence.

From Project Gutenberg

Intimations come out at intervals that the judges will never dare to pass any but a nominal sentence upon him.

From Project Gutenberg