A2adjective1K

Major

UK /["/ˈmeɪdʒə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈmeɪdʒər/"]/

Definition

very large or important

In simple words: Very important or large.

Examples

  • The major project deadline is coming up next week.
  • He made a major impact on the team's success this season.
  • Choosing the right major is important for your future career.
  • The major difference between the two products is their price.
  • She has a major role in the upcoming play.

Usage notes

Use 'major' to describe something significant in formal and everyday contexts, but avoid it in highly casual situations.

Grammar pattern

major + noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'major' in college, someone who chooses an important field of study.

Collocations

  • major role
  • major issue
  • major change
  • major breakthrough
  • major decision

Synonyms

  • important
  • significant
  • crucial
  • key
  • substantial

Antonyms

  • minor
  • insignificant
  • trivial

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'majority' when talking about a large group.
  • Using 'major' as a verb incorrectly.
  • Incorrectly placing 'major' before a verb.