Meaning & use
token appreciation
Last updated
Meaning
phrasefixed phrase
A small, symbolic expression of thanks or recognition, often less than what is deserved.
Grammar: Used as a noun phrase; it can be countable or uncountable depending on context.
Patterns
- a token appreciation
- as a token of appreciation
- token appreciation for something
The company gave a small bonus as a token appreciation for the team's hard work.
She received a token appreciation in the form of a gift card, but she had hoped for a raise.
A token appreciation may be nice, but it doesn't pay the bills.
Common combinations
- as a token of appreciation
- Please accept this gift as a token of our appreciation.
- a token appreciation gift
- They handed out token appreciation gifts to all the volunteers.
- offer token appreciation
- The manager offered token appreciation but no real reward.
- token appreciation for
- This certificate is just a token appreciation for your efforts.
Synonyms and how they differ
- token of gratitude
- This phrase is similar but often implies a more sincere, though still small, gesture; 'token appreciation' can sound more dismissive.
- symbolic gesture
- This is broader and can refer to any symbolic act, not just thanks; 'token appreciation' specifically relates to thankfulness.
Commonly confused: token appreciation or token of appreciation?
token appreciation vs token of appreciation
This is the more common and idiomatic form; 'token appreciation' is a shortened version often used in business contexts.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'token appreciation' correctly?
Choose one answer.
'A token of appreciation' is the standard phrase. 'Token appreciation' without 'of' is less common and often sounds awkward. 'Token appreciations' is not used because appreciation is uncountable in this sense. 'Token appreciate' is wrong because 'appreciate' is a verb.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “token appreciation”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.