Home › Military Science & Warfare › Nuclear Proliferation › non-proliferation

non-proliferation

non-pruh-LIF-uh-RAY-shun nɒnprəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃən

nounC1GRETOEFLIELTS

FormalPolitical

The prevention of an increase in the number of countries possessing nuclear weapons; the policy or efforts aimed at stopping the spread of nuclear weapons.

Refers specifically to the policy, efforts, and international agreements designed to halt the spread of nuclear weapons technology and materials.

The story behind the word. The term 'non-proliferation' is simply the negation of 'proliferation' with the prefix `non-`. As 'proliferation' gained its specific nuclear context in the mid-20th century, 'non-proliferation' quickly followed to describe the concerted international efforts and policies aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons to additional countries.

Word relationships

containment: More general, refers to keeping something harmful under control; 'non-proliferation' is specific to nuclear weapons.
arms control: Broader, includes limiting, reducing, or regulating conventional and nuclear arms; 'non-proliferation' is about preventing new states from acquiring them.
disarmament: The reduction or elimination of existing weapons; 'non-proliferation' is about preventing new acquisition.

proliferation: The rapid spread or increase of something, especially nuclear weapons.

Word family

non-proliferating (adjective): Not proliferating; preventing proliferation.

Collocations

nuclear non-proliferation
non-proliferation regime
non-proliferation efforts
non-proliferation treaty
strengthen non-proliferation

Example sentences

"The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) is a landmark international agreement aimed at preventing the spread of nuclear weapons." Discussing international diplomacy.
"Achieving nuclear non-proliferation remains a top priority for global security organizations." Referring to a political goal.
"The nation's foreign policy strongly advocates for non-proliferation and disarmament." Describing a country's policy.

Memory hook

Remember that 'NON-proliferation' is the opposite of 'proliferation' – it's the effort to say 'NO' to the spread of nuclear weapons. Stop nuclear spread.

When not to use

For stopping any kind of general spread, use 'containment,' 'prevention,' or 'restriction.' 'Non-proliferation' is a specialized term for nuclear weapons.

Fun facts

The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), opened for signature in 1968, is one of the most widely adhered-to treaties in history, with 191 states parties.

Related words

proliferation, disarmament

Explore more words

disarmament, arms race, deterrence, proliferation, demilitarize, containment