non
word
/ˈnɑn/
nahn
/nˈɒn/
non
Definition
'Non-' is a prefix used before nouns, adjectives, or adverbs to mean 'not', 'without', or 'the opposite of' something.
Usage & Nuances
'Non-' is always joined with the word it modifies (e.g., 'nonexistent', 'nonstop'). It is not used as a standalone word. Do not confuse with 'none' or 'no'. Common pattern: 'non-' + noun/adjective. Used in both formal and informal contexts.
Spanish: no (prefijo)-sin (prefijo)Portuguese (BR): não (prefixo)-sem (prefixo)Portuguese (PT): não (prefixo)-sem (prefixo)Chinese (Simplified): 非（前缀）- 不（前缀）Chinese (Traditional): 非（前綴）- 不（前綴）Hindi: ग़ैर (उपसर्ग)- बिना (उपसर्ग)Arabic: غير (بادئة)- بدون (بادئة)Bengali: নন-Russian: не-Japanese: 非- - ノン-Vietnamese: phi- - không-Korean: 비- - 논-Turkish: gayri- - non-Urdu: غیر-Indonesian: non- - tanpa-
Example Sentences
He's a nonsmoker, so please don't offer him a cigarette.
natural
There is a nonstop flight to Paris.
basic
This is a nondairy product.
basic
He has a nonviolent attitude.
basic
Many non-English speakers find this grammar rule difficult.
natural
We stayed at a nontoxic hotel, which was great for my allergies.
natural