non-conforming

Meanings

1. 1adjectivecomparableformal

   Not following a rule, standard or specification that applies.

   Grammar: Often before a noun: non-conforming parts.

   Patterns

   • non-conforming to something
   • non-conforming goods

   The inspector rejected the non-conforming parts.

   The building was non-conforming and needed a permit.

   Non-conforming products were returned to the factory.

2. 2adjectivecomparableformal

   Not behaving in line with accepted social customs or expectations.

   Grammar: Used about people or behavior: non-conforming students.

   Patterns

   • non-conforming behavior

   The school had a few non-conforming students who wore unusual clothes.

   The artist was known for her non-conforming style.

   Non-conforming views were rarely heard in the meeting.

Common combinations

non-conforming product

A non-conforming product must be reported.

non-conforming use

The land has a non-conforming use under the old zoning law.

non-conforming loan

A non-conforming loan does not meet standard lending rules.

non-conforming behavior

The teacher tolerated non-conforming behavior.

gender non-conforming

Gender non-conforming people may not follow traditional gender norms.

Synonyms and how they differ

nonstandard

Nonstandard is more general and less strict, while non-conforming points to a specific rule that was not followed.

deviant

Deviant is judgmental and negative, whereas non-conforming is neutral.

unorthodox

Unorthodox is about unusual methods or beliefs rather than failing a measurable standard.

Opposites

Word family

nonconformity noun

failure to conform

nonconformist noun

a person who does not follow accepted ideas

conform verb

to follow rules or customs

Commonly confused: non-conforming or nonconforming vs. nonconformist?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “non-conforming”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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