majority — meaning in English: majority

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for majority

act

yes

majority

few

practice

Skip this question

🎓

Learn English for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 'majority' in discussions about voting, legislation, or decision-making processes. For example, in a political context, one might say, 'The majority of voters supported the new policy,' indicating that more than half voted in favor.

Synonyms & nuances

'Majority' is often compared to 'bulk' and 'most.' While 'majority' specifically refers to more than half of a group, 'bulk' can denote a large part but doesn't imply a numeric threshold. You would use 'majority' in formal voting contexts, while 'bulk' might fit better in casual conversations about quantities.

Culture

The word 'majority' comes from the Latin word 'majoritas,' which means 'greater' or 'larger.' Its use dates back to the late Middle Ages when it became crucial in legal contexts, particularly in determining outcomes of votes and consensus. It's fascinating how the concept of a 'majority' can influence democracies worldwide, shaping governance and public policy.

FAQ

Q.What does majority mean in voting?

'Majority' in voting refers to the group that has more than half of the total votes. For instance, if 100 people vote, a majority would require at least 51 votes.

Q.How do you use majority in a sentence?

You can say, 'The majority agreed with the proposal,' which indicates that more than half of the people supported it. This usage is common in both spoken and written English.

Q.Is majority a countable or uncountable noun?

'Majority' is typically used as a countable noun when referring to a specific group (e.g., 'a majority of the committee'), but it can also be uncountable when discussing the concept in a broader sense (e.g., 'The majority is often overlooked in debates').

Learn english with Maspeak →

English 1000