minor

[ˈmaɪnər]

minor Definition

  • 1lesser in importance, seriousness, or significance
  • 2relating to or denoting a scale of notes or a key based on a minor third, especially the natural minor scale or key.
  • 3a person under the age of full legal responsibility

Using minor: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "minor" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The issue is minor and can be easily resolved.

  • Example

    She suffered only minor injuries in the accident.

  • Example

    The song was composed in a minor key.

  • Example

    Minors are not allowed to purchase alcohol.

minor Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with minor

  • minor league

    a level of play in professional sports that is lower than the major leagues

    Example

    He played in the minor leagues for several years before being called up to the majors.

  • a surgical procedure that is relatively simple and does not involve major incisions or anesthesia

    Example

    The doctor performed minor surgery to remove a small cyst from her wrist.

  • a musical key based on a minor scale, typically perceived as having a sad or melancholy sound

    Example

    The song was written in a minor key, which gave it a haunting quality.

Origins of minor

from Latin 'minimus', meaning 'least'

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Summary: minor in Brief

The term 'minor' [ˈmaɪnər] refers to something that is lesser in importance, seriousness, or significance. It can also refer to a musical scale or key based on a minor third, or a person who is under the age of full legal responsibility. Examples include 'She suffered only minor injuries in the accident.' and 'Minors are not allowed to purchase alcohol.' Phrases like 'minor league' and 'minor surgery' denote levels of play and surgical procedures that are relatively simple.

How do native speakers use this expression?