The term 'Negative Beginning' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: NON (3 letters). Non is a Latin prefix meaning 'not' or 'WITHOUT'. It is often used to form negative words, such as nonchalant, noncommittal, and nonconformist. Non is also used in many scientific terms, such as nonmetals and nonpolar molecules. In general, the prefix non is used to describe something that is not present or does not exist.