nonemergency
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /nɒnɪˈmɜːrdʒənsi/
KK: /nɑnɪˈmɜrdʒənsi/
adjective
Definition
Something that is not urgent or critical and does not require immediate attention.
Example
The doctor scheduled a nonemergency appointment for the patient next week.
Conversation
I called the clinic, and they said I should come in for a nonemergency check-up.
That sounds like a good idea, especially if you haven’t been in a while.
Yeah, I just want to make sure everything is okay.
Definitely! It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
routine
ordinary
standard
Antonyms
urgent
critical
emergency
noun
Definition
A situation or event that does not require immediate attention or action, unlike an emergency.
Example
The doctor said my appointment was for a nonemergency check-up.
Conversation
I had to call the clinic today for a nonemergency issue.
Oh really? What happened?
I just needed to reschedule my appointment, nothing serious.
Root Explanation
Nonemergency → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "emergency" (from Latin "emergere", meaning to rise up or come forth). The word "nonemergency" means a situation that is not urgent or does not require immediate action.
Memory Tip
Think of 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'emergency' meaning a situation that requires immediate attention. This helps you remember that 'nonemergency' refers to something that is not urgent.
Visually Confused Words
emergency