General terms:
* Abiotic: This term refers to anything that is not living. It encompasses all non-biological components of the environment, such as rocks, water, air, and sunlight.
* Inorganic: This term usually refers to matter that is not composed of organic molecules (carbon-based molecules), such as minerals and salts.
* Non-living: A simple and straightforward way to describe something that is not alive.
Specific terms:
* Object: A general term for a physical entity.
* Material: Refers to the physical substance of something.
* Structure: Used to describe a non-living physical arrangement, such as a building or a machine.
* Chemical: A specific type of substance, not necessarily organic.
* Physical phenomenon: An observable event or process, such as weather or gravity.
Examples:
* A rock is abiotic, inorganic, and non-living.
* Water is abiotic and inorganic.
* A car is a non-living object made of various materials.
* Sunlight is a physical phenomenon.
Ultimately, the most appropriate term depends on the specific context and what you are trying to communicate.