What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
major
Example
I'm majoring in biology at university. [majoring: verb]
Example
The company made a major announcement about their new product line. [major: adjective]
Example
The major concern for the team was the safety of their players. [major: noun]
key
Example
Communication is key to a successful relationship. [key: adjective]
Example
The key to solving this problem is to approach it from a different angle. [key: noun]
Example
She used a key to open the door to her apartment. [key: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Major is more commonly used than key in academic or professional contexts, while key is more commonly used in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between major and key?
Major is more formal than key, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
