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Minors Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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minors

[หˆmaษชnษ™rz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal

Persons who are under the legal age of majority, typically under 18 years old.

Synonyms

juveniles, underage, youth.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
minors

This term is most commonly used in legal and formal contexts to refer to individuals under the age of legal adulthood.

  • Minors are not allowed to purchase alcohol.
  • Parents are responsible for the actions of their minors.
underage

This term is primarily used to emphasize that someone is below the legal age for specific activities, like drinking or voting. It carries a slightly negative connotation.

  • She was caught driving while underage.
  • Selling alcohol to underage individuals is illegal.
juveniles

This word is used in legal, formal, and sometimes psychological contexts, often when discussing youth in the context of criminal behavior or development.

  • The juvenile was detained for shoplifting.
  • Juvenile delinquency is a serious issue.
youth

This word refers to young people collectively or the period in life when one is young, often used in a general, positive, or neutral context.

  • The youth today are very tech-savvy.
  • Youth programs help build community.

Examples of usage

  • Minors are not allowed to purchase alcohol.
  • Minors need parental consent to sign legal documents.
  • Minors have restrictions on working hours.
Context #2 | Noun

education

Students who have not yet reached the age of majority, usually in school.

Synonyms

children, pupils, students.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
minors

Used in legal or formal contexts to refer to individuals who are not yet adults. It generally applies to those under the age of 18.

  • Selling alcohol to minors is illegal.
  • The film is restricted to viewers and minors are not allowed.
students

Refers to individuals engaged in studying at an educational institution. Applicable to learners of all ages, but often used for those in higher education or university.

  • The students are preparing for their final exams.
  • As a medical student, he spends a lot of time in the library.
pupils

Mainly used in the context of education, referring to students, especially in primary and secondary school settings. More common in British English.

  • The teacher asked the pupils to hand in their homework.
  • The school has over 500 pupils.
children

A general term for young human beings, typically those under the age of 13. Commonly used in everyday conversation and less formal contexts.

  • Please keep an eye on the children while they play.
  • Children often need more sleep than adults.

Examples of usage

  • The school has a policy to protect minors from harm.
  • Minors are required to attend school until a certain age.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In most countries, a minor is someone who has not reached the age of legal adulthood, which is typically 18.
  • Minors have limited rights compared to adults, meaning they cannot make certain legal decisions, like signing contracts.
  • Some laws protect minors from exploitation, ensuring they receive education and care.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, reaching adulthood is marked by ceremonial rites, like bar or bat mitzvahs, which signify a minor's transition to responsible adult life.
  • Different cultures have varying concepts of childhood and adulthood, influencing the age considered as a minor.
  • In many societies, the expectations of minors can differ greatly based on social norms and traditions, impacting their roles in families and communities.

Psychological Development

  • Developmentally, minors undergo significant changes; their brains continue maturing into their mid-20s, affecting emotions and decision-making.
  • Teenage years are often a critical time for identity formation, where minors begin to establish their own values and beliefs.
  • The experiences minors face during this stage can greatly influence their mental health and social skills as adults.

Education

  • Many minors are required to attend school, with education systems designed to cater to their developmental needs.
  • Engagement in extracurricular activities is vital for minors, providing tools for teamwork, leadership, and social interaction.
  • Education policies may vary, often emphasizing the rights of minors to access quality education and protective measures against bullying.

Entertainment

  • Minors are often the target audience for childrenโ€™s and teen shows, influencing trends in media consumption.
  • Many famous child stars began their careers as minors, navigating fame while balancing responsibilities like school.
  • Gaming industries create content specifically designed for minors, focusing on fun, learning, and safe online interactions.

Origin of 'minors'

The word 'minors' originated in the 15th century from the Latin word 'minor', meaning 'less'. It has been used in legal contexts to refer to persons under the age of majority for centuries. In education, 'minors' are often referred to as students who are not yet adults. The term has evolved over time to reflect the protection and care given to young individuals in various institutions.

See also: minor, minority.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,160, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.