Meaning & use

non-irritating

adjective·Everyday

Last updated

UK/ˌnɒnˈɪr.ɪ.teɪ.tɪŋ/
US/ˌnɑːnˈɪr.ə.teɪ.t̬ɪŋ/

Meanings

  1. adjectivebefore a noun

    Not causing soreness, itching, or redness on the skin or eyes.

    Grammar: Used before a noun, as in non-irritating lotion; it describes a product, not a person.

    Patterns

    • non-irritating formula
    • non-irritating to the skin
    • non-irritating for someone

    This non-irritating lotion is safe for babies.

    Choose a non-irritating cleanser if your skin is sensitive.

    The eye drops are non-irritating and can be used daily.

  2. adjectivebefore a nounfigurative

    Not annoying or making someone feel impatient.

    Grammar: Used before a noun, as in a non-irritating manner; this sense is less common than the skin-care one.

    Patterns

    • non-irritating manner
    • non-irritating habit

    He has a calm, non-irritating way of explaining things.

    Her non-irritating tone kept the meeting friendly.

Common combinations

non-irritating formula
The non-irritating formula suits sensitive skin.
non-irritating to the skin
The cream is non-irritating to the skin.
mild and non-irritating
The soap is mild and non-irritating.
non-irritating eye drops
She uses non-irritating eye drops every morning.

Synonyms and how they differ

gentle
Suggests soft and kind action; non-irritating is more precise and often used for products.
mild
Means not strong or harsh; non-irritating focuses on not causing a reaction.
hypoallergenic
Means unlikely to cause allergies, which is not the same as not causing irritation.

Opposites

Word family

irritate verb
To make part of the body sore or itchy.
irritation noun
A feeling of soreness or annoyance.
irritating adjective
Causing soreness or annoyance.

Practice

My skin reacts badly to most soaps, so I need one that is ___.

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