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Nonconformity Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nonconformity

[หŒnษ’nkษ™nหˆfษ”หmษชti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

social behavior

Nonconformity refers to the refusal to adhere to societal norms, standards, or expectations. It is the act of intentionally deviating from the prevailing customs or conventions.

Synonyms

individuality, rebellion, unconventionality.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nonconformity

Nonconformity is typically used when describing someone or something that does not conform to established norms or rules. It often has a neutral or slightly formal connotation.

  • His nonconformity made him a well-known figure in the art community.
  • The company's nonconformity with industry standards was both praised and criticized.
unconventionality

Unconventionality refers to behavior or ideas that are different from what is considered normal or standard. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the situation.

  • Her unconventionality is what makes her artwork so compelling.
  • His unconventionality often caused misunderstandings at work.
individuality

Individuality emphasizes a person's unique traits and characteristics. It's usually used in positive contexts to highlight someone's distinctiveness.

  • Her sense of individuality made her stand out in the crowd.
  • The school encourages students to express their individuality through various activities.
rebellion

Rebellion is used when someone is actively resisting authority, control, or tradition. It often carries a negative or dramatic connotation.

  • The teenager's rebellion against his parents' rules was causing a lot of stress at home.
  • The story is about a rebellion against a corrupt government.

Examples of usage

  • He was always proud of his nonconformity, never succumbing to peer pressure.
  • The artist's nonconformity to traditional painting styles made her work stand out.
  • Her nonconformity was seen as a rebellious act in a society that valued uniformity.
Context #2 | Noun

geology

In geology, nonconformity is a type of discontinuity in the rock sequence where sedimentary rocks are deposited on older, eroded igneous or metamorphic rocks.

Synonyms

discontinuity, stratigraphic anomaly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nonconformity

Used to describe behavior or actions that do not conform to established standards, norms, or rules. This term is often used in social or cultural discussions.

  • Her nonconformity made her stand out in a conservative community.
  • The artist's nonconformity was evident in his abstract paintings.
discontinuity

Typically used in scientific, mathematic, or technical contexts to describe a break or gap in a sequence, process, or structure.

  • The study of the geological discontinuity revealed important information about the earthquake.
  • There is a discontinuity in the data that needs to be addressed.
stratigraphic anomaly

Used specifically in geology to describe an unexpected or unusual feature in the layers of rock, indicating a disruption or irregularity in the geological record.

  • The stratigraphic anomaly indicated a significant environmental change millions of years ago.
  • Geologists were puzzled by the stratigraphic anomaly found at the excavation site.

Examples of usage

  • The geologist identified a nonconformity in the layers of rock, indicating a period of erosion before new sedimentation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term originated from the 17th century, initially referring to those who did not conform to the Church of England.
  • In the 19th century, it was often associated with movements like Transcendentalism in the United States, which emphasized individualism.

Cultural Significance

  • Nonconformity has driven many artistic movements, from Beatniks in the 1950s to punk rock in the 1970s, celebrating individuality.
  • Fashion often reflects nonconformity, where unique styles and personal expressions challenge mainstream trends.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that nonconformists have a higher tendency to experience creativity and are often seen as more authentic.
  • They may also face challenges with social acceptance but can find communities that appreciate their uniqueness.

Literature

  • Writers like Henry David Thoreau, who advocated for not conforming to societal norms, inspired many with their works promoting individuality.
  • The concept of nonconformity appears in novels like 'The Catcher in the Rye,' portraying characters who resist societal expectations.

Education

  • In education, promoting nonconformity encourages critical thinking, allowing students to question norms and develop independent ideas.
  • Montessori education emphasizes nonconformity by encouraging children to follow their interests rather than conforming to a rigid curriculum.

Origin of 'nonconformity'

The term 'nonconformity' originated in the early 19th century, combining the prefix 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'conformity' meaning 'compliance with standards or norms'. It has been used to describe social behavior and geological phenomena, reflecting a deviation from established norms or rock sequences.

See also: conformably, conformance, conformation, conformer, conformist, conformity, nonconformer, nonconforming, nonconformist, nonconformists, nonconformities.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,563, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.