Majority Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
majority
[mษหdสษrษชti ]
Definitions
in voting
The greater number or part; more than half; the number greater than half of any total
Synonyms
dominance, plurality, preponderance.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| majority |
Use 'majority' to refer to more than half of a group or total, especially in voting contexts or simple counts.
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| plurality |
Use 'plurality' when a number of votes, shares, or other quantities is the largest single portion but not an absolute majority. Commonly used in electoral contexts.
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| dominance |
Use 'dominance' when describing control, power, or influence over others. This word often has a strong or negative connotation.
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| preponderance |
Use 'preponderance' to indicate something is greater in size, number, weight, or importance. This often appears in more formal or statistical contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The majority of the votes went to the incumbent candidate.
- In order to win, a candidate must secure a majority of the votes.
in age
The state or time of being of full legal age; adulthood
Synonyms
adulthood, legal age, maturity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| majority |
Used to refer to the age at which a person is considered legally an adult and responsible for their actions. Can also mean the greater part or most of something.
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| adulthood |
Used to describe the state or condition of being an adult. This term is more general and does not necessarily relate to legal standing.
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| maturity |
Used to refer to the state of being fully developed in body or mind, often implying emotional or intellectual growth. This term can also refer to the time when something is due or ready, like a financial instrument.
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| legal age |
Refers specifically to the legally defined age at which a person is allowed to engage in certain activities, such as voting, drinking, or signing contracts.
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Examples of usage
- Upon reaching the age of majority, individuals gain certain rights and responsibilities.
- In most countries, the age of majority is 18.
in importance
The greater number or part; more than half; the number greater than half of any total
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| majority |
Used when referring to more than half of a group or a set of items. Commonly used in formal contexts like voting, decision-making, or statistics.
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| most |
Used when indicating almost all or the largest extent of something. It is more general and can be used in various contexts, both formal and informal.
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| bulk |
Refers to the largest part or most of something. It often relates to the amount or volume of physical items and has a somewhat informal tone.
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| preponderance |
Used in more formal contexts to indicate a greater quantitative presence or influence. Often used in legal, academic, or technical discussions.
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Examples of usage
- The majority of the population supported the new policy.
- The majority of scientists agree on this theory.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Political Science
- In elections, the majority wins; this can determine who gets elected to office.
- Majority rule is a key principle in democracy, meaning decisions are made based on what most people want.
Statistics
- In statistics, a majority is often defined as over 50% of a given population.
- Data often requires the calculation of majority to analyze trends and preferences effectively.
Culture
- In social contexts, understanding the majority can help in addressing needs and concerns of the larger group.
- Majority opinion can influence cultural norms and values significantly.
Psychology
- Individuals often feel more secure in their decisions when they know they align with the majority.
- The Bandwagon Effect describes how people tend to adopt behaviors or beliefs because they see many others doing it.
Origin of 'majority'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'majoritas', which means 'greater' or 'larger'.
- It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century to denote a larger share or number.
The word 'majority' originates from the Latin word 'majoritas', meaning 'greatness', which is derived from 'major', meaning 'greater'. The concept of majority has been fundamental in decision-making processes and governance systems throughout history. It plays a crucial role in democratic societies, where the majority opinion often determines outcomes. The notion of majority has evolved over time to encompass various contexts, such as voting, age, and importance.