Minor: meaning, definitions and examples
🔍
minor
[ˈmaɪnər ]
Definitions
inconsequential
Lesser in importance, seriousness, or significance. Not major or significant.
Synonyms
insignificant, negligible, small, trivial.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
minor |
Used when describing something small in importance or not severe. Often used in contexts like minor injuries or minor mistakes.
|
insignificant |
Used when something is not important or lacks impact. It emphasizes the lack of importance.
|
trivial |
Used when something is very simple, unimportant, or not worth much consideration. It often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying that it is almost too small to bother with.
|
negligible |
Used when something is so small or unimportant that it can be disregarded. Often used in scientific, mathematical, or formal contexts.
|
small |
Used to describe physical size or quantity, but also can refer to importance. Very general term.
|
Examples of usage
- The issue was considered minor and did not require immediate attention.
- She suffered only minor injuries in the accident.
underage
A person who is not yet an adult, typically under the legal age of majority.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
minor |
This term is often used in legal contexts to refer to someone who is not yet an adult, typically under the age of 18. It conveys a neutral tone and is appropriate in formal documents or conversations involving laws and regulations.
|
underage |
This term is commonly used to refer to someone who is below the legal age for engaging in certain activities like voting, drinking, or driving. It often implies restriction and is prevalent in warnings or rules.
|
youth |
This term is broader and can refer to young people collectively, often focusing on those experiencing early stages of adulthood. It is generally used in a positive or neutral context related to vitality, potential, and community.
|
adolescent |
This term is primarily used in medical, educational, or psychological contexts to describe individuals going through puberty, typically aged between 12 and 18. It focuses on the developmental stage of an individual and is often used by professionals in related fields.
|
Examples of usage
- Minors need parental consent to participate in the study.
- He was caught purchasing alcohol as a minor.
music
A minor key, scale, or chord in music.
Synonyms
minor key, minor scale.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
minor |
In music theory, 'minor' refers to a type of scale or chord that generally has a sadder, more melancholic sound compared to major ones.
|
minor key |
Use 'minor key' when talking about music that is composed in a minor scale. This term accentuates the tonal structure and mood of the piece.
|
minor scale |
Use 'minor scale' to discuss the specific sequence of pitches in music that defines the minor tonality.
|
Examples of usage
- The piece was composed in the key of A minor.
- She played a haunting melody in the minor scale.
Interesting Facts
Legal Definitions
- In many countries, a minor is defined as anyone under the age of 18, which means they can’t make certain legal decisions.
- Some laws allow minors to consent to medical treatment, showing that their understanding is sometimes recognized.
- In some cultures, the age of majority can vary, meaning a person may be considered an adult at different ages.
Cultural Context
- In the context of music, the term 'minor' refers to a scale or chord that sounds more somber or sad, contrasting with its 'major' counterpart.
- In some countries, minors may have restrictions on activities like driving, drinking alcohol, or voting to protect their wellbeing.
- Celebrations for becoming an adult often involve a coming-of-age ceremony, marking the transition from minor to adult status in various cultures.
Psychological Perspective
- Research shows that minors are still developing their decision-making skills and often require guidance from adults.
- The teenage years are crucial for identity formation, making it an important time for minors to explore their interests and beliefs.
- Peer influence is particularly strong in minors, impacting their choices and behavior during these formative years.
Education
- In educational contexts, a 'minor' can also mean a secondary field of study that complements a student's main area of focus.
- Certain laws aim to protect minors in school environments, ensuring they have safe and supportive learning experiences.
- Extracurricular activities often provide minors with opportunities to develop skills and socialize outside of formal education.
Entertainment
- Many films and shows feature minors as protagonists, helping to explore themes of growth, adventure, and rebellion.
- The portrayal of minors in media can influence public perception of youth issues, like mental health or relationships.
- Youth competitions and contests often encourage minors to showcase their talents, providing a platform for their voices.
Translations
Translations of the word "minor" in other languages:
🇵🇹 menor
🇮🇳 अल्प
🇩🇪 minderjährig
🇮🇩 kecil
🇺🇦 неповнолітній
🇵🇱 małoletni
🇯🇵 未成年 (miseinen)
🇫🇷 mineur
🇪🇸 menor
🇹🇷 küçük
🇰🇷 미성년자 (miseongnyeonja)
🇸🇦 قاصر
🇨🇿 nezletilý
🇸🇰 maloletý
🇨🇳 未成年人 (wèi chéngnián rén)
🇸🇮 mladoleten
🇮🇸 minni
🇰🇿 кәмелетке толмаған
🇬🇪 არასრულწლოვანი
🇦🇿 azyaşlı
🇲🇽 menor