Meaning of "fixed"

Question

Hello. I am trying to understand if the word "fixed" must mean "unchanging" and "invariable" or if it can also mean "limited," "circumscribed" and "bounded." So, if my compensation is a combination of $50,000 salary plus a bonus of between $5,000 and $10,000, is my compensation "fixed" in that it is definitely bounded by $55,000 and $60,000? Or is it not "fixed" because there can be some variability? Thank you in advance!

Lou

BarbaraPA · Accepted Answer

The $50K portion is fixed. I wouldn't use it for the entire amount, to mean "bounded" as you have described.

Clive · Answer

Hi,
I am trying to understand if the word "fixed" must mean "unchanging" and "invariable" or if it can also mean "limited," "circumscribed" and "bounded." So, if my compensation is a combination of $50,000 salary plus a bonus of between $5,000 and $10,000, is my compensation "fixed" in that it is definitely bounded by $55,000 and $60,000? Or is it not "fixed" because there can be some variability?

In a case like this, I'd say that your salary is fixed, and that you also earn a bonus that has fixed limits.

To my mind, it sounds a little odd to have a lower limit for a bonus. ie if your work is a disaster, you still receive a bonus (just like a Wall Street banker

). Such an arrangement makes the first $5,000 of your bonus sound more like a salary to me.

Best wishes, Clive

Philip · Answer

I receive  pension and social security payments every month.  I am on a "fixed" income because there is nothing I can do to increase either payment.  I also work a few hours each month on the side, so my income is not necessarily "limited" [I can work as much or as little as I prefer}.

Meaning of "fixed"

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