nonflammable
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: * Impossible to ignite; not easily set on fire: Describes a material or substance that will not catch fire or burn under normal conditions.
Usage
The word "nonflammable" is used as a descriptive adjective, typically placed before a noun or after a linking verb like "is" or "are." It is a technical and safety-related term commonly found on labels, in building codes, and in scientific or industrial contexts to indicate that a material does not pose a fire hazard.
Examples
- The laboratory required all decorations to be made from nonflammable materials.
- This insulation is completely nonflammable, making it safe for use in high-temperature environments.
- Look for cleaning products that are labeled nonflammable for safer storage.
Advanced Usage
- "nonflammable" vs. "flammable" and "inflammable": It is crucial to understand that "nonflammable" means a substance will not burn. The words "flammable" and "inflammable" are synonyms, both meaning a substance can catch fire easily. "Nonflammable" is the direct and unambiguous antonym.
- Regulatory and Safety Language: The term is often used in official standards and warnings (e.g., "Nonflammable compressed gas," "Fabric is nonflammable according to standard test method XYZ").
Variants and Related Words
- Flame-retardant (adj): Treated or designed to resist burning and slow the spread of fire, though not necessarily "impossible to ignite." It is a related but distinct property from being inherently nonflammable.
- Incombustible (adj): A formal synonym meaning incapable of being burned. It is often used interchangeably with "nonflammable" in technical contexts.
Synonyms
- Incombustible
- Fireproof
- Fire-resistant (note: this often implies resistance to fire for a period, not absolute impossibility to ignite)
Antonyms
- Flammable
- Inflammable
- Combustible
Adjective
- impossible to ignite