nonsmall

Nonsmall is an English adjective formed by negating the meaning of small using the prefix non-. In contemporary usage, the term is uncommon as a standalone word and is more often encountered in hyphenated compounds such as non-small, where it serves to describe something that is not small. When used outside of specialized terms, writers typically prefer not small or simply large, depending on the intended meaning.

Etymology and formulation: The component non- derives from a Latinate prefix meaning “not,” while small derives from Old English. The resulting expression follows typical English patterns for negation, but its appearance as a single closed word (nonsmall) is rare and often discouraged in favor of hyphenation or rephrasing. Style guides commonly recommend non-small or not small, especially in formal or editorial contexts.

Usage in specialized domains: In technical and scientific writing, the compound often appears in established terms such as non-small cell, found particularly in medical phrases like non-small cell lung cancer. In these contexts, the hyphenated form non-small is favored to maintain clarity. Outside such domains, nonsmall or even non-small is usually unnecessary, and more precise wording is preferred.

Orthography and guidance: Since hyphenation clarifies negation, many editors discourage the closed form nonsmall. When a phrase needs to convey not being small, options include non-small, not small, or a more specific descriptor (for example, large, medium, or significantly sized). The choice depends on audience and field.

See also: negation in English prefixes, non- prefix, hyphenation conventions, non-small cell.