What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
minor
Example
The issue was minor and didn't require much attention. [minor: adjective]
Example
She's still a minor and can't vote yet. [minor: noun]
Example
I'm taking a minor in psychology to complement my major in biology. [minor: noun]
secondary
Example
The main focus is on the primary issue, while the secondary issue is less important. [secondary: adjective]
Example
He attended a secondary school before going to college. [secondary: noun]
Example
The dress has a secondary color that complements the primary color. [secondary: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Secondary is more commonly used than minor in everyday language. Secondary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while minor is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between minor and secondary?
Both minor and secondary are relatively formal words and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
