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: present participle]
Example
The company made a major announcement about their new product line. [major: adjective]
subject
Example
The subject of the lecture was the history of ancient Rome. [subject: noun]
Example
The scientist conducted experiments on the subject of sleep patterns. [subject: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Subject is more commonly used than major in everyday language. Subject is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while major is more specific and primarily used in academic or educational settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between major and subject?
Both major and subject can be used in formal and informal contexts, but major may be perceived as more formal due to its association with academic or professional settings.