What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
major
Example
The company made a major announcement about their new product line. [major: adjective]
Example
I'm studying biology as my major in college. [major: noun]
Example
She became a major figure in the fashion industry. [major: adjective]
prominent
Example
The building has a prominent location in the city center. [prominent: adjective]
Example
He is a prominent lawyer in the community. [prominent: adjective]
Example
The article highlighted the prominent role of women in the civil rights movement. [prominent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Major is more commonly used than prominent in academic and professional contexts, while prominent is more commonly used in everyday language to describe visible or noticeable features or people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between major and prominent?
Major is generally considered more formal than prominent, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.