Non-profit

Definition

Non-profit refers to an organization or entity that operates primarily to serve a public or communal interest rather than for the pursuit of private economic profit.

Parts of Speech

• Noun (when referring to the organization itself)
• Adjective (when describing something that pertains to or is characteristic of such an organization)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnɑnˌprɑfɪt/
• Respelling: NON-prof-it (with "NON" as in "non," "prof" as in "profit," and "it" as in "sit")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈnɒnˌprɒfɪt/
• Respelling: NON-prof-it (with "NON" as in "non," "prof" as in "profit," and "it" as in "sit")

In both dialects, "non-profit" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "NON." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "NON-prof-it."

Etymology

The term "non-profit" is a compound word that comes from the prefix "non-" (meaning "not") and the word "profit". Historically, the concept stems from organizations that worked not for the economic benefit of owners or stakeholders, but for a communal or public cause.

Derivatives

• Non-profitability
• Non-profit-making
• Non-profitable
• Non-profiteer
• Non-profit-oriented

Synonyms

• Not-for-profit
• Non-profit-making
• Charitable

Antonyms

• For-profit
• Commercial
• Proprietary

Usage

The term "non-profit" is widely used to describe organizations that primarily operate to benefit the society or a specific community instead of generating profits for private ownership.

• She works for a non-profit that promotes environmental conservation.
• Many non-profit organizations rely heavily on donations and grants.
• Their main goal as a non-profit is to advance education in underserved communities.

Related Terms

• NGO (Non-Governmental Organization)
• Philanthropy
• Charitable trust
• Foundation
• Non-commercial

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Organization Type: An entity or group established primarily for purposes other than making a profit, often focused on social, educational, cultural, or charitable objectives.‍
• Example: The non-profit has been active in community outreach for over a decade.

Adjective

• Characteristics of Non-profit Entities: Pertaining to or characteristic of an organization that operates primarily for public or communal benefits rather than for economic gain.‍
• Example: Their non-profit status allows them certain tax exemptions.