Translation guide
The English word "major" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: academic major, something large or important, a military rank, and music key.
To talk about one's main field of study at university.
The standard word for academic major. Used as a noun or with する to mean 'to major in'.
My major is economics.
What are you majoring in at university?
Verb pattern meaning 'to major in ~'.
He is majoring in history.
To describe something as major in size, importance, or impact.
Prenominal adjective meaning 'big' or 'major'. Used before nouns. Common and natural for 'major problem', 'major change', etc.
That's a major problem.
Means 'main', 'principal', or 'major'. Slightly more formal. Used for 'major role', 'major factor', etc.
He played a major role.
Means 'serious', 'grave', or 'major'. Used for negative events like accidents, mistakes, or problems.
A major accident occurred.
To refer to the military rank of major.
The standard translation for the rank of major in the army, air force, or marines.
He was promoted to major.
To describe a musical key as major (as opposed to minor).
The loanword メジャー is not used for academic major. Use 専攻 instead.
What is your major?
There has been a major change.
Please play a C major chord.