Words / B1

MAYJ-uh/ˈmeɪdʒə/

Major means very large, important, or serious. A major change; a major problem. Main often means the chief one in a set (the main reason). Minor is the opposite. Major can also mean a university subject in American English, but at B1 “important/serious” is the core meaning.

Meaning

Very large, important, or serious.

Examples

• “There has been a major change in the plan.”
• “There are two major reasons for the delay.”
• “He played a major part in the decision.”

Good to know

a major + noun. Opposite: minor. Nearby: main / important.

Near in meaning

important

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