Major Meaning
Major Definition & Usage
Larger, more important, or more significant compared to others in a particular context.
Examples
- "The major cities in the country are all on the coast."
- "His major achievement was winning the national championship."
- "The major difference between these two products is their durability."
- "She made a major breakthrough in her research last year."
- "We need to address the major concerns before moving forward."
A person's primary field of study or focus, particularly in higher education.
Examples
- "He is majoring in computer science at the university."
- "Her major is biology, but she's also interested in psychology."
- "What was your major when you were in college?"
- "I decided to change my major from chemistry to physics."
- "The most popular majors at this school are business and engineering."
To specialize or focus on a particular area or subject, especially in a professional or academic context.
Examples
- "She majors in graphic design at a local college."
- "I decided to major in economics after my first year."
- "He majored in philosophy, but now works in finance."
- "They are planning to major in history for their undergraduate degree."
- "My brother wants to major in environmental science."
A commissioned officer in the military, ranking above captain and below lieutenant colonel.
Examples
- "The major gave us new orders for the mission."
- "He's been promoted to major after 10 years of service."
- "As a major, she oversees a division of soldiers."
- "The major is in charge of coordinating the field operations."
- "During the briefing, the major outlined the next steps in the strategy."
Cultural Context
The word 'major' has Latin origins, from 'major' meaning 'greater'. Over time, it has taken on several meanings in different contexts such as size, importance, academic focus, and military rank.
The Major Decision
Story
The Major Decision
James had always dreamed of becoming a doctor, but as he sat in the crowded college auditorium listening to the dean's speech on choosing a major, he felt overwhelmed. The dean was explaining the significance of selecting the right major—after all, this would shape the next few years of their lives. James had already decided on biology, but hearing the emphasis on how a major could define one's career path made him second-guess his choice. "Are you nervous?" Sarah whispered, nudging him with her elbow. She had decided to major in psychology, a decision she had made after years of reading about human behavior. James smiled nervously, his mind still racing. He thought back to his summer internship at a local hospital, where he had worked under a medical major—Dr. Allen. Dr. Allen had been a major influence on his decision, always explaining the importance of a solid academic foundation in medicine. That experience had solidified his choice, but now, sitting in the lecture hall, James questioned if there was a 'major' difference between medicine and other fields like research or pharmacology. Later, after class, he met with his advisor, Professor Thompson, who had been a major figure in the university's science department. "The major you choose should align with your passions, not just your abilities," the professor said, offering James a sense of clarity. It was clear to James that 'major' wasn’t just about academics. It was about understanding what mattered most in his life. With a renewed sense of confidence, he decided to major in biology and pursue his dream of becoming a doctor. As he left the office, he smiled, knowing that he had made a major decision—one that would shape his future. In the months that followed, James encountered other 'majors'—whether it was a major breakthrough in his studies, a major project in his labs, or the sense of pride he felt after receiving his first major academic award. Each time, he thought about how one small decision, like choosing his major, could have such a profound impact on his life.
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