non-metric
Definition
- Adjective:
- Not based on the meter as a standard of measurement: Describes a system, unit, or measurement that does not use the meter or the metric system as its basis.
Usage
The adjective "non-metric" is used to qualify systems, units, or measurements that are outside the metric (International System of Units) framework. It is typically used in technical, scientific, and commercial contexts when contrasting with metric standards.
Examples
- Adjective:
- The United States primarily uses non-metric units like inches, feet, and pounds for everyday measurements.
- Older engineering drawings from that country are often non-metric, requiring conversion.
- This is a non-metric screw thread, so you'll need a different set of tools.
Advanced Usage
- In a broader sense: While the core definition relates to the meter, "non-metric" can implicitly refer to any aspect not conforming to the International System of Units (SI), which includes units for mass, volume, etc.
- The recipe's non-metric measurements (cups and tablespoons) were confusing for the European baker.
Variants and Related Words
- Imperial (adj): Specifically referring to the British Imperial system of units (e.g., gallon, mile).
- Customary (adj): Often used as "US customary units," the system commonly used in the United States.
- Metric (adj): The direct antonym, meaning based on the meter and the decimal system.
Synonyms
- Non-SI: Not conforming to the International System of Units.
- Traditional (in specific measurement contexts): Referring to older, locally established units.
Antonyms
- Metric: Based on the meter.
- Decimal (in measurement contexts): Using a base-10 system, characteristic of the metric system.
Adjective
-
not based on the meter as a standard of measurement
