non-slip

Meanings

1. 1adjectivebefore a noun

   Designed to prevent slipping or sliding, especially on floors or surfaces.

   Grammar: Used before a noun: 'non-slip mat', 'non-slip surface'. It is not usually used after a verb.

   Patterns

   • non-slip surface
   • non-slip mat
   • non-slip shoes
   • non-slip coating

   The bathroom has a non-slip floor to prevent accidents.

   She bought a non-slip mat for the shower.

   Wear non-slip shoes when you work in the kitchen.

2. 2adjectivebefore a noun

   Having a texture or treatment that gives good grip.

   Grammar: Describes the physical quality of a material or object.

   Patterns

   • non-slip grip
   • non-slip handle
   • non-slip tread

   The ladder has non-slip feet for safety.

   This non-slip tape can be applied to stairs.

Common combinations

non-slip mat

Put a non-slip mat under the rug.

non-slip surface

The pool area has a non-slip surface.

non-slip shoes

Restaurant staff must wear non-slip shoes.

non-slip coating

They applied a non-slip coating to the ramp.

non-slip grip

The phone case has a non-slip grip.

Synonyms and how they differ

anti-slip

Very similar, but 'anti-slip' is often used for products that prevent slipping, while 'non-slip' describes the property of the surface itself.

slip-resistant

More formal and often used in safety regulations; it means the same but is more technical.

Opposites

Word family

slip verb

To slide accidentally and lose your balance.

slippery adjective

Difficult to hold or stand on because it is smooth or wet.

Commonly confused: non-slip or slip-on?

Practice

Make it your own

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

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