major

adj. very important, large, or serious when compared to others.

adj. greater in importance, size, or scope than others of the same kind.

“The city is facing a major problem with traffic during the rush hour.”

“The government announced a major shift in economic policy following the unexpected rise in inflation rates.”

adj. describing a scale or key that often sounds bright or happy.

adj. relating to a scale with a semitone between the third and fourth degrees, typically associated with a bright or cheerful tonality.

“The song is written in C major, which gives it a very joyful feeling.”

“The symphony transitions from a somber C minor opening to a triumphant finale in the parallel major key.”

n. the main subject that a student studies at a college or university.

n. the principal field of study in which a student chooses to specialise for an undergraduate degree.

“She decided to change her major from history to biology in her second year.”

“After completing his core requirements, he declared a major in international relations with a minor in economics.”

American English

n. an officer in the army or air force who is above a captain.

n. a commissioned officer rank in many armies, positioned above captain and below lieutenant colonel.

“The major ordered the soldiers to prepare for the morning exercise.”

“Having served with distinction in the field, she was promoted to the rank of major and assigned to headquarters.”

v. to study one particular subject as your main focus at university.

v. to pursue a specific academic field as one's primary area of specialisation.

“If you want to work in a bank, you should major in finance or business.”

“She intends to major in computer science while maintaining a heavy course load in mathematics and logic.”

American English