majority - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
majority Word Meanings
- the greater part or more than half of a group
- the age at which a person is legally considered an adult
- the quality or state of being greater in number.
majority Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
majority Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/məˈdʒɒrɪti/
US
/məˈdʒɔːrɪti/
majority Word Etymology
majo- = greater + -ity = quality/state. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a crowd where more than half are wearing bigger hats, symbolizing the greater number.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I start with my hand on a board, move a marker along a line and push it toward one side. People nod, hands hover, and the tally begins to pull toward the same direction. I keep my stance steady, adjust my grip, and let the room’s energy shift as more voices tilt in. When the moment lands, the sense of majority settles in—not as a rule learned, but as a momentum you can feel in the body.
Real Context
majority refers to the larger portion of a group, usually more than half. In everyday use you might say that a majority of students preferred the plan, and in statistics you compare the majority to the minority. It also names a legal concept: the age at which someone becomes an adult, for example, reaching the age of 18 in many countries, which gives voting rights and other responsibilities. Note that majority is a noun; 'major' is an adjective meaning 'larger or more important.' People often mishear 'majority' as 'major' or mix up 'minority' with it.
Usage Reminders
- The majority means more than half, not simply the best.
- Use 'the majority of' with a plural noun (the majority of students).
- The age of majority is a legal concept and varies by country.
- majority is a noun; major is an adjective meaning important or large.
- Be careful not to confuse majority with minority; they are opposites.
Common Misconceptions
- Majority is about importance, not quantity.
- The age of majority is the same everywhere.
- Majority and major mean the same thing.
- The majority of people always means a plural verb.
- Majority is the opposite of minority.
Thinking Differences
In English, majority centers on quantity—more than half—while many learners treat it like 'the most important.' This can lead to mistakes about verb agreement (the majority is/are) and about legal uses (age of majority).
Learning Tips
- Remember majority means more than half.
- Use 'the majority of' with plural nouns.
- Learn the legal sense (age of majority) as a separate meaning.
- Differentiate majority from major (important).
- Minority is the opposite of majority; practice the contrast.
- Watch for verb agreement: the majority of X can be singular or plural.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'majority' mean?
A.Old-fashioned
B.Kind-hearted
C.The greater number
D.Excited
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'majority' used correctly?
A.The majority of the students is failing the exam.
B.He had a majority of fun at the party.
C.The dog barked loudly because of the majority.
D.A minority of the class passed the test.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'majority'?
A.Walk
B.Minority
C.Powerful
D.Eager
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'majority'?
A.Modern
B.Lesser number
C.Strong
D.Happy
Step 5: Mastery
In a democratic process, who usually wins the majority of votes?
A.Dancers
B.Audience
C.Candidates
D.Singers
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