non-smoker vs nonsmoker

Both "non-smoker" and "nonsmoker" are correct, but the hyphenated version "non-smoker" is more commonly used in English. The hyphen helps to clarify that "non" is a prefix indicating negation, and it also enhances readability.

Last updated: March 24, 2024 • 1128 views

non-smoker

This is a correct and commonly used term in English.

The term "non-smoker" is used to refer to a person who does not smoke. It is hyphenated to clarify that "non" is a prefix indicating negation.

Examples:

She is a non-smoker and prefers to be in smoke-free environments.
The hotel has designated non-smoker rooms for guests.
As a non-smoker, he was sensitive to the smell of cigarette smoke.
The survey asked whether the participant was a smoker or a non-smoker.
Non-smoker policies are becoming more common in public spaces.

Show examples from the web [+]

As you have gathered, I am an intolerant non-smoker.
Otherwise healthy tissue, non-smoker, minimal scarring.
And try to get a non-smoker.
So, you're telling me I'm a... non-smoker.
It is now worthwhile being a non-smoker and accusing smokers and companies for the harm they have done.
Mr President, may I start by declaring an interest in this debate: I am a passionate non-smoker and I wish to share my passion with other Members of the House.
Mr President, as a non-smoker I have others who smoke to thank for my cough.
For a non-smoker, you're good at it.
As a non-smoker, I would have no difficulty whatsoever in joining those who are going to vote today with great enthusiasm for a total ban on tobacco advertising.
Perhaps it is better to be a smoker in the countryside than a non-smoker in the town.
Takes note of theOmbudsman's decision regarding smoking in the EP premises; calls on the Secretary-General to come up with new measures to comply with the remarks made by the Ombudsman, e.g. to ensure that non-smoker areas are respected;
Do you think she's saying, "Why can't I meet an attractive,"thirtysomething non-smoker
As a non-smoker, I am in favour of Amendment 4, which was - partly on my initiative - tabled by the Group of the Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe.
I have nice breath. I'm a non-smoker.
MP3 PLAYER: 'From this moment you are a non-smoker.
As a non-smoker and farmer myself, I think it is important to recognise the double standards involved in the present form of tobacco subsidy.
As an active non-smoker since birth, I am far from being a supporter of tobacco consumption, let alone an advocate of overlooking its possible dangers.
As an active non-smoker since birth, I am far from being a supporter of tobacco consumption, let alone an advocate of overlooking its possible dangers.
Educated gentleman, handsome, non-smoker, vital, Sign
I hope that you will not misunderstand me, as I attach great importance to a healthy lifestyle and I myself am a non-smoker.

Alternatives:

nonsmoker
someone who does not smoke
individual who abstains from smoking
smoke-free individual
person who avoids smoking

nonsmoker

This is a correct term in English, but less common than "non-smoker".

The term "nonsmoker" is also used to refer to a person who does not smoke. It is a closed compound word without a hyphen, but it is less common than the hyphenated form "non-smoker".