What does nonviolently mean?
“Nonviolently” is an adverb meaning without physical violence or force. It describes an action, campaign, protest, dispute resolution, or conflict carried out through peaceful methods such as negotiation, persuasion, civil disobedience, or public demonstration. The word is especially associated with political and social movements that reject physical force while still seeking change. It can also convey that a difficult matter was settled through compromise and lawful discussion rather than coercion. The adverb is distinct from the related adjective “nonviolent,” which describes people, events, or methods: one may describe a “nonviolent protest” or say that protesters acted “nonviolently.” In everyday conversation, “peacefully” is often more natural, while “nonviolently” is useful when the contrast between peaceful and violent methods is important.
adverbIn a way that does not involve physical violence or force. It describes methods, actions, or approaches carried out through persuasion, negotiation, protest, or other peaceful means.
- Without physical violence or force; through peaceful means.
"The demonstrators protested the decision nonviolently and remained in the square."
"The campaigners demanded justice nonviolently."
"The conflict was eventually resolved nonviolently through mediation."
Nonviolence turns the power of refusal, persuasion, and public witness into a form of action without physical force.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nonviolently come from?
“Nonviolently” was formed in the 20th century from the combining form “non-” meaning “not,” the noun “violence,” and the adverbial suffix “-ly.” “Violence” and “violent” derive through Old French from Latin violentia, associated with force or vigor and ultimately with the Latin root violens, meaning forceful or violent. The prefix “non-” is widely used in English to form negative meanings, so “nonviolently” follows the pattern of “nonviolently” describing conduct undertaken without violence.
Related word forms
How nonviolently is actually used
This adverb is formal and most common in political, social, and legal contexts. It often emphasizes the method used, rather than merely describing a generally peaceful situation.
Easily confused with nonviolently
“Nonviolent” is an adjective describing a person, action, protest, or method, whereas “nonviolently” is an adverb describing how an action is carried out.