Words / C2

NYOOG-uh-t-uh-ree/ˈnjuːɡətəri/

Nugatory means of no real value, force, or effect (formal): a nugatory distinction, nugatory protection. Worthless is everyday; negligible (already in the dictionary) is so small it can be ignored — a cousin, not a twin (negligible is size; nugatory is force). Do not call a legally required clause nugatory because it is short.

Meaning

Worthless; of no real value, force, or effect (formal).

Examples

• “A nugatory “noted” beside an open flame risk is not a decision.”
• “Worthless is everyday. Negligible is tiny (already in C1). Trivial is slight. A one-line consent clause can still bind. “Noted” with no owner, no date, and no action is nugatory. Length is not force; an empty minute is.”

Good to know

Of no force or value (formal). Everyday: worthless. Contrast: negligible (tiny — already in this dictionary). A short clause can still bind.

Near in meaning

worthless

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