Here's a breakdown:
* It negates the meaning of the word it's attached to. For example, "non-fiction" means "not fiction", and "non-toxic" means "not toxic".
* It can create the opposite of a concept. "Non-conformist" is someone who doesn't conform to societal norms, and "non-profit" refers to an organization that doesn't make a profit.
* It can create a new concept. "Non-linear" describes something that doesn't follow a straight line, and "non-binary" refers to a gender identity outside of the traditional male/female binary.
Here are some examples of "non" in use:
* Non-refundable: This means the item cannot be returned for a refund.
* Non-essential: This describes something that isn't crucial or necessary.
* Non-alcoholic: This refers to a beverage that doesn't contain alcohol.
* Non-violent: This means not involving violence.
* Non-fiction: This describes writing based on real events and facts.
Remember, "non" can also be combined with other prefixes to create more complex words, like "non-governmental" (NGO) or "non-invasive."