Nonspeaking: meaning, definitions and examples

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nonspeaking

 

[ nɒnˈspiːkɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

communication ability

The term 'nonspeaking' refers to individuals who do not use spoken language for communication. This can include people with various disabilities or conditions that affect their ability to speak. Nonspeaking individuals may use alternative forms of communication, such as sign language, written text, or technology-assisted methods. Understanding that nonspeaking does not equate to nonsensical or lack of intelligence is crucial, as many nonspeaking individuals have profound insights and value to express.

Synonyms

mute, nonverbal, silent, unarticulated

Examples of usage

  • The school provides resources for nonspeaking students.
  • Nonspeaking individuals may use a communication device to interact.
  • It's important to include nonspeaking voices in discussions.
  • Nonspeaking does not imply a lack of understanding.

Translations

Translations of the word "nonspeaking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 não falante

🇮🇳 बोलने में असमर्थ

🇩🇪 nicht sprechend

🇮🇩 tidak berbicara

🇺🇦 некомерційний

🇵🇱 niesłyszący

🇯🇵 話さない

🇫🇷 non parlant

🇪🇸 no hablante

🇹🇷 konuşmayan

🇰🇷 말하지 않는

🇸🇦 غير المتحدث

🇨🇿 nemluvící

🇸🇰 nemý

🇨🇳 不说话

🇸🇮 negovoreč

🇮🇸 ekki talandi

🇰🇿 сөйлеспейтін

🇬🇪 არამეტყველება

🇦🇿 danışmayan

🇲🇽 no hablante

Etymology

The word 'nonspeaking' is a combination of the prefix 'non-' meaning 'not' and the gerund form 'speaking', which comes from the verb 'speak'. The use of the prefix 'non-' has been prevalent in the English language to denote the absence of a quality or action since the early 19th century. The term 'speak' itself has Old English roots from 'specan', which has evolved over centuries in various dialects. 'Nonspeaking' began to gain traction in discussions around disability and communication in the late 20th century, as more awareness was brought to the diverse ways in which people communicate and express themselves beyond verbal language. This shift also coincided with advancements in technology that facilitated communication for those who are nonspeaking, thereby enhancing visibility and acceptance of various communication forms.