minor

word

/ˈmaɪnɝ/
MY-nur
/mˈaɪnɐ/
MY-nuh

Definition

Used to describe something that is smaller, less important, or not serious. It can also refer to a person who is under the legal age of adulthood.

Usage & Nuances

Common in formal and everyday English. Frequent combinations include 'minor problem', 'minor injury', 'minor detail', and 'a minor'. 'Minor' often suggests 'not very serious' rather than 'unimportant'. As a noun, 'a minor' almost always means a person under 18 or under the legal adult age.

Example Sentences

It was a minor mistake, so don't worry.

basic

She had a minor injury after the game.

basic

You cannot sign this form alone because you are a minor.

basic

We had a minor problem with the car, but it's fine now.

natural

That's a minor detail — let's focus on the main issue.

natural

The report mentioned a few minor changes to the plan.

natural