What is major? Pronunciation and usage in English

major means . Learn how to pronounce and use major through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of major

majoradjective/noun

/ˈmeɪdʒə/
Definition & pronunciation of major

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "major." It's a tricky one because it's often mispronounced! Here's a breakdown:

The correct pronunciation is: /ˈmeɪdʒər/ (MAY-zhər)

Let's break it down further:

  • MAY: This part is like the word "may" – short "a" sound as in "mat."
  • zhər: This is the trickiest part. It sounds like "zh" as in "measure" or "vision," but with a "r" at the end. It's a voiced "sh" sound. You'll need to feel the vibration in your throat.

Here's a helpful way to think about it:

Imagine you're saying "may" and then adding a slight, subtle "zh" sound followed by a "r."

Resources for Hearing it:

Common Mispronunciations & Why They're Wrong:

  • MAH-zhur: (incorrect) - The "a" sound is too long and the "zh" sound is more abrupt.
  • MAJ-or: (incorrect) - It misses the blended "may-zhur" sound.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you more tips on the "zh" sound?

Usage and examples with the word major in English

Let's break down how to use the word "major" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a breakdown categorized by usage:

1. As a Noun (Most Common)

  • Academic Major: This is the most frequent use. It refers to the primary area of study you’re focusing on at a university or college.

    • Example: “She’s majoring in Biology.”
    • Example: “He decided to major in Computer Science after taking a programming class.”

  • Major Problem/Issue: This refers to a significant difficulty or concern.

    • Example: “The rising cost of living is a major problem for many families.”
    • Example: “Climate change is a major issue facing the world today.”

  • Major Event/Occasion: This is a particularly important or noteworthy event.

    • Example: “The company’s annual conference was a major event.”
    • Example: “The victory in the World Cup was a major moment for the nation.”

  • Major Role/Responsibility: This indicates a highly important job or duty.

    • Example: “He took on a major role in the charity fundraising campaign.”

2. As an Adjective

  • Significant/Important: This describes something that is large in scale, degree, or effect.

    • Example: “This is a major mistake.” (It’s a significant/important mistake.)
    • Example: “It's a major achievement.” (It's a significant/remarkable achievement.)
    • Example: “A major change is coming.” (A significant/large change)

  • Concerning a Field of Study (less common in everyday speech): This specifies the subject you're studying.

    • Example: "She is a major in history." (Less common - you'd more often say "She's majoring in history")

3. As a Verb (Less Common)

  • To Choose as a Field of Study (Academic): This is used to express the act of selecting a major.

    • Example: “I’m planning to major in engineering.”

  • To Be a Significant Factor: (More formal and less frequently used) This describes something influencing a situation.

    • Example: “Cost will majorly affect the project's success.” (Cost will be a major factor affecting the project’s success.) -- This is often rephrased for better flow.

Here’s a table summarizing the uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Noun Academic Field of Study "She’s majoring in Psychology."
Noun Significant Issue “Poverty is a major problem.”
Noun Important Event “The concert was a major success.”
Noun Important Role “He has a major responsibility.”
Adjective Significant/Important “That’s a major concern.”
Verb Choose as a Field of Study “I’m going to major in Art.”

Tips for Using "Major" Correctly:

  • Context is Key: The meaning of "major" depends heavily on the context of the sentence.
  • Synonyms: Consider using synonyms like “significant,” “important,” “major,” “substantial,” or “critical” to vary your language.
  • Formal vs. Informal: “Major” is generally acceptable in both formal and informal settings, but using synonyms like “significant” might be preferable in very formal writing.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to write or say? (e.g., a college application essay, a casual conversation, a report?)
  • Do you have a specific sentence you’re struggling with?

Synonyms for the word major

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