Definition

This term describes something that does not apply to past events or situations, only affecting future occurrences.

Example

The new law is nonretroactive, meaning it will not change any previous decisions.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new policy at work?

Yeah, I did! It's supposed to be nonretroactive, right?

Exactly! So it only affects new hires from now on.

That makes sense; it wouldn't be fair otherwise.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonretroactive → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "retro-" (meaning backward) and "act" (from Latin "agere", meaning to do) and "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word describes something that does not apply to actions or events that occurred in the past.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') applying to something that goes 'backward' ('retro-') in time, and that it relates to actions ('act'). This helps you remember that 'nonretroactive' means it does not affect past actions.

Visually Confused Words