non-western
UK: /ˌnɒnˈwɛstən/ | US: /ˌnɑːnˈwɛstərn/
adj. not originating from or characteristic of Western culture, values, or traditions
adj. relating to regions or societies outside Europe and North America
The word "non-western" combines the prefix "non-" (from Latin "non," meaning "not") with "western," derived from Old English "west" (direction) + the suffix "-ern" (denoting location or affiliation). "Western" historically refers to Europe and later expanded to include North America. The prefix "non-" negates this, creating a term for cultures or regions outside the dominant Eurocentric framework. The compound reflects post-colonial linguistic shifts to categorize global diversity more inclusively.
The museum's new exhibit focuses on non-western art traditions.
Scholars are increasingly studying non-western perspectives in philosophy.
This conference aims to bridge gaps between western and non-western medical practices.
Non-western music often uses scales unfamiliar to European listeners.
The book critiques the bias in labeling cultures as "non-western."