non-nuclear
non-nuclear — adjective
1. describes something that is not connected with atomic energy or atomic weapons i
describes something that is not connected with atomic energy or atomic weapons in a broad comparison
The treaty covers both nuclear and non-nuclear threats to public safety.
contrast: nuclear and non-nuclear threats
Devika compared non-nuclear research methods with older atomic test methods.
The museum opened a non-nuclear science exhibit for younger visitors.
Our team looked for non-nuclear ways to measure the material.
- non-atomic
more formal and less common; used mainly in technical contrasts
- nuclear
connected with nuclear energy, weapons, or reactions
用法筆記
Used as a broad label when the exact type is not the focus. More specific senses below are preferred when the word refers directly to weapons, power systems, military action, or states.
2. describes a bomb, missile, or other weapon whose force comes from ordinary explo
describes a bomb, missile, or other weapon whose force comes from ordinary explosives rather than an atomic reaction
The army tested a non-nuclear missile on an empty island range.
collocation: non-nuclear missile
Walid described the strike as non-nuclear but still highly destructive.
Officials promised only non-nuclear warheads would be stored at the base.
The bunker was designed to survive non-nuclear attacks from nearby aircraft.
- conventional
the standard military term for weapons that are not nuclear
- nuclear
used of weapons whose destructive power comes from a nuclear reaction
用法筆記
Used for the weapon itself, not for a whole war or defence policy. Distinguish from sense 4, which describes action or strategy that does not use nuclear weapons.
3. describes a vehicle, plant, or system that does not run on power produced by a n
describes a vehicle, plant, or system that does not run on power produced by a nuclear reactor
The submarine is non-nuclear, so it must refuel more often.
be + non-nuclear for operating type
Sari prefers non-nuclear energy sources for the island's power plan.
collocation: non-nuclear energy source
The company built a non-nuclear power plant beside the river.
The navy wants a non-nuclear ship for long training trips.
- non-atomic
formal and uncommon; used in technical contrasts with nuclear power
- nuclear-powered
operated by energy from a nuclear reactor
用法筆記
Most often used with machines, transport, or energy systems. Distinguish from sense 1, where the word is only a broad category label rather than a power source description.
4. describes military action, policy, or defence plans that do not use atomic weapo
describes military action, policy, or defence plans that do not use atomic weapons
The defence plan outlines a non-nuclear response to a border attack.
collocation: non-nuclear response
Kevin argued for a non-nuclear war even after the missiles landed.
The generals prepared non-nuclear options before meeting the prime minister.
The alliance promised a non-nuclear strategy during the sea dispute.
- conventional
used in defence language for military action that excludes nuclear weapons
- nuclear
involving the use or threat of nuclear weapons
用法筆記
This sense describes how a conflict or defence plan is carried out. Distinguish from sense 5, which describes a country that does not possess nuclear weapons at all.
5. describes a country or state that does not own nuclear weapons
describes a country or state that does not own nuclear weapons
After the vote, the country remained non-nuclear under the new constitution.
remain + non-nuclear for state policy
Min said the region is safer if every state stays non-nuclear.
The treaty rewards non-nuclear nations with trade and inspection support.
A non-nuclear neighbour asked for stronger defence promises from allies.
- nuclear-free
often used of countries, zones, or policies that ban or lack nuclear weapons
- nuclear-armed
having nuclear weapons
用法筆記
Used mainly for countries, states, or regions in international politics. Distinguish from sense 4, where the focus is on not using nuclear weapons during a conflict.