noncompatible

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /nɒn.kəmˈpæt.ə.bəl/

KK: /nɑnˈkəmˌpætəbl/

adjective

Definition

Not able to exist or work together without conflict or problems.

Example

The two software programs are noncompatible, so they cannot be used together.

Conversation

I tried to connect my new headphones to the laptop, but they were noncompatible.

Oh no, that's frustrating! What brand are they?

They're from a different brand than my laptop, so I guess that makes sense.

Yeah, sometimes those things just don't work together.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

incompatible

unfit

unsuitable

Antonyms

compatible

fit

suitable

Root Explanation

Noncompatible → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "compatible" (from Latin "compatibilis", meaning able to exist together). The word "noncompatible" means not able to exist or work together.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') being paired with 'able to exist together' ('compatible') — that's why noncompatible means they cannot coexist.

Visually Confused Words

uncompatible