Which term describes damages awarded for a breach without showing any actual loss?

The term that describes damages awarded for a breach of contract without the need to demonstrate actual loss is nominal damages. Nominal damages serve as a recognition that a legal right has been violated, even though the injured party has not incurred a quantifiable financial loss. This type of damage is typically a small amount, symbolizing that while a breach occurred, it did not result in significant harm or loss to the party.

Nominal damages are important in legal contexts because they uphold the principle that a party should be held liable for a breach, regardless of the magnitude of actual damages. This is particularly relevant when a breach might have consequences that do not translate into direct financial losses, allowing the court to acknowledge the violation of rights.

Other terms listed refer to specific types of damage awards in different contexts. Prefixed damages are not commonly recognized in legal terminology, while ordinary damages, often referred to as compensatory damages, require proof of actual loss. Liquidated damages involve a pre-determined amount agreed upon by the parties in the contract for breaches, which also differs fundamentally from the concept of nominal damages.