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major
/ˈmeɪdʒər/
important, serious, or large in scale
The company is facing a major financial crisis.
The company is dealing with a very serious and significant problem with its money.
formal
Important, serious, or large in scale; of great significance.
Smoking is a major cause of lung cancer.
Smoking is a very significant reason for the development of lung cancer.
Used to emphasize the weight or impact of a situation, event, or factor.
informal
A student's primary subject of study at a university.
She is majoring in Biology.
Her main field of academic study is Biology.
Commonly used in North American higher education contexts.
technical
A senior commissioned officer in the armed forces, ranking above a captain and below a lieutenant colonel.
Major Smith led the platoon into battle.
The officer with the rank of Major commanded the small military unit.
Specific military rank; varies slightly by country.
Collocations
major factora significant influence or causemajor decisionan important choice with significant consequencesmajoritythe greater number or part
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguishing Major vs. Minor
Use 'major' for things that have a big impact or are very important. Use 'minor' for small, less important, or easily fixed issues. For example, a 'major accident' involves serious injury, while a 'minor accident' might just mean a small scratch on the car.
Gold Rule
Academic Usage
When talking about university studies, use 'major in' (verb) or 'my major is' (noun). Do not say 'I study major in Biology'; say 'I am majoring in Biology' or 'My major is Biology'.
Word Origin
From Latin 'major', comparative of 'maior' meaning 'greater', derived from 'magis' meaning 'more'.
Usage Notes
As an adjective, 'major' is often used to contrast with 'minor'. In academic contexts, it refers to the main subject. In military contexts, it is a specific rank.
Word Breakdown
major
greater, more important
rootEnglish Dictionary