Nonconformists: meaning, definitions and examples

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nonconformists

[ˌnɒnkənˈfɔːmɪst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

individuality

Nonconformists are people who refuse to follow established customs, attitudes, or beliefs. They often challenge societal norms and expectations.

Synonyms

dissenter, free spirit, maverick, rebel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dissenter	Used in contexts where someone opposes official or majority opinion, often in political, religious, or organizational settings. The dissenter spoke out against the government's policies. In the meeting, he was the lone dissenter who disagreed with the new strategy.
maverick	Used to describe someone who is independent-minded and innovative, often in professional or business contexts. This term often implies respect and admiration. As a maverick in the tech industry, he's known for thinking outside the box. Her maverick approach to solving problems has led to many breakthroughs in the company.
rebel	Used to describe someone who actively resists authority or any established order, often with a negative or confrontational connotation. Can also have a positive connotation if referred to in a historical or revolutionary sense. The young rebel refused to follow the school's strict dress code. During the revolution, many rebels fought for their country's independence.
free spirit	Used to describe someone who is open-minded, carefree, and unconstrained by societal rules, often with a positive or neutral connotation. She's a free spirit who loves to travel and experience new cultures. As a free spirit, he lives life on his own terms and doesn't worry about what others think.

Examples of usage

Many nonconformists choose to express their uniqueness through unconventional fashion choices.
Nonconformists are often viewed as rebels or outsiders by mainstream society.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

religion

In a religious context, nonconformists are members of a Protestant church that does not conform to the doctrines or practices of the established Church of England.

Synonyms

dissenter, nonconformer, nonconforming Protestant.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
nonconformists	Used to describe people who do not follow established customs, norms, or practices, often in a general societal or cultural context. The nonconformists in the art community always bring fresh perspectives. Her parents were nonconformists in the way they raised her, valuing creativity over tradition.
dissenter	Refers to individuals who oppose or reject the official or commonly accepted views, especially in a political or religious context. Often has a negative connotation. He was labeled a dissenter for opposing the government's new policies. In history, many religious dissenters faced persecution.
nonconformer	Used similarly to nonconformists, focusing on individuals who do not conform to the majority or accepted standards, often in personal behavior or dress. As a nonconformer, she often wore unconventional clothes. Nonconformers in the office often challenge the status quo and inspire change.
nonconforming Protestant	Specifically refers to Protestants who do not conform to the practices or governance of the established Church of England. Historically significant. The nonconforming Protestants faced significant challenges during the 17th century. Many nonconforming Protestants emigrated to the New World in search of religious freedom.

Examples of usage

The Nonconformists in England faced persecution for their religious beliefs and practices.
Nonconformist churches often emphasize personal faith and individual interpretation of scripture.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'nonconformist' originated in 17th century England to describe Protestants who did not belong to the Church of England.
Historically, nonconformists have often faced social and political resistance, especially in religious contexts.
The 20th century saw a rise in nonconformists in various movements, including civil rights and counterculture, pushing against mainstream norms.

Pop Culture

Many famous artists and musicians, like Bob Dylan and Frida Kahlo, are considered nonconformists for their unique styles and perspectives.
Movies like 'Dead Poets Society' celebrate nonconformists, showcasing how they inspire others to think independently.
The punk rock movement in the 1970s was driven by nonconformists, challenging societal norms with its fashion and music.

Science

In science, nonconformists can lead to breakthroughs; for example, Albert Einstein was initially seen as a nonconformist due to his radical ideas about physics.
In psychology, nonconformity is studied as a trait that can correlate with creativity, as it often leads to novel thinking.
Social experiments show that nonconformist behaviors can influence group dynamics, sometimes encouraging others to think outside the box.

Literature

Classic novels such as 'Catch-22' by Joseph Heller explore themes of nonconformity against societal expectations.
Nonconformist writers like Virginia Woolf and James Joyce broke traditional writing styles to express their thoughts more freely.
The Beat Generation, contributing figures like Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg, redefined literature by living nonconformist lives.

Psychology

Research indicates that nonconformists may have higher levels of self-esteem, as they are often more connected to their beliefs.
Studies show that people who are nonconformists can promote innovation within teams by encouraging diverse ideas.
Nonconformists often face social penalties, yet they may also inspire change and progress by questioning the status quo.

Translations

Translations of the word "nonconformists" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não conformistas

🇮🇳 असंगतिवादी

🇩🇪 Nonkonformisten

🇮🇩 nonkonformis

🇺🇦 нонконформісти

🇵🇱 nonkonformiści

🇯🇵 非協調主義者 (ひきょうちょうしゅぎしゃ)

🇫🇷 non-conformistes

🇪🇸 inconformistas

🇹🇷 uyumsuzlar

🇰🇷 비순응자들

🇸🇦 غير الممتثلين

🇨🇿 nonkonformisté

🇸🇰 nonkonformisti

🇨🇳 不墨守成规者

🇸🇮 nekonformisti

🇮🇸 ósamvinnufúsir

🇰🇿 нонконформистер

🇬🇪 არათანასწორი

🇦🇿 nonkonformistlər

🇲🇽 inconformistas

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,241 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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32238 bray
32239 centipede
32240 servitor
32241 nonconformists
32242 soffit
32243 rediscovering
32244 heedlessly
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