The license does not authorize commercial use
CC BY-NC 4.0 permits use that is not primarily intended for or directed toward commercial advantage or monetary compensation. A commercial plan may require separate permission from the rights holder.
Context matters
A nonprofit user is not automatically noncommercial, and a business user is not automatically commercial in every situation. Look at the purpose and character of the particular use rather than relying only on the user’s identity.
When the answer is uncertain
Ask the rights holder for written permission or choose material under CC BY, CC BY-SA, CC0, or a suitable public-domain statement. Do not treat a general educational purpose as a universal exemption.
Put it into practice
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