nonequivalent
UK[ˌnɒnɪˈkwɪvələnt]US[ˌnɑːnɪˈkwɪvələnt]
adj
not having the same value, function, meaning, or effect; not equivalent.
Morpheme Breakdown
non
equivalent
non
not
equivalent
equal in value
Etymology
the word "nonequivalent" is a modern english formation built upon the established adjective "equivalent." the prefix "non-," derived from latin non meaning "not," is a productive and straightforward negator in english. it is attached to "equivalent," which itself originates from late latin aequivalent-, the present participle of aequivalere meaning "to have equal power or value," from aequus ("equal") and valere ("to be strong, be worth"). therefore, the literal construction "not equivalent" directly and logically yields the modern meaning of lacking equality in value, significance, or effect.
Analysis
Structure: non (not) + equivalent (equal in value)
non (latin origin, a prefix meaning "not"); equivalent (from latin aequivalens, meaning "of equal value").
Examples
the two chemical compounds are nonequivalent in their biological activity.
the translator argued that the proposed terms were nonequivalent and would change the meaning of the clause.
in logic, the two statements are nonequivalent, as one can be true while the other is false.