Non-personifying

Describing something that does not attribute human qualities, emotions, or actions to inanimate objects, abstract concepts, or animals. It emphasizes an objective, detached view, refraining from anthropomorphism. This approach focuses on the literal properties and behaviors, avoiding the temptation to imbue the subject with human characteristics. It adheres to a factual, rather than a figurative or imaginative, representation, ensuring clarity and avoiding emotional bias. The term often contrasts with writing or art that intentionally assigns human traits for stylistic or symbolic effect.

Non-personifying meaning with examples

• The scientific report presented a Non-personifying analysis of the forest fire's spread. It focused on wind speed, fuel density, and temperature changes, omitting any descriptions implying the fire was 'angry' or 'malicious.' The emphasis was strictly on observable data and measurable impacts, presenting a clear and objective understanding of the event.
• In her landscape painting, the artist opted for a Non-personifying depiction of the mountains. She rendered them as geological formations shaped by erosion and uplift, avoiding romantic notions of grandeur or imposing personalities. The focus was on capturing the light and shadow, the textures and colors, with a detached, yet appreciative perspective.
• The historian's account of the economic collapse was non-personifying. It meticulously detailed financial indicators, policy decisions, and market trends, without framing the crisis as a consequence of any 'evil' or 'greedy' entities. Instead, it offered a comprehensive overview of contributing factors based on factual evidence and logical relationships.
• The instructional manual provided a Non-personifying guide to operating the machine. Instructions were worded in a clear and direct manner. It described the machine's functions, including pressing a button, and provided steps without portraying it as having intentions or feelings. The user only had to follow the exact instructions.