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B1 noun #2,000 mais comum 15 min de leitura

majorité

Q: Do I use a singular or plural verb after 'la majorité des gens'?

You can technically use either, but the plural is much more common and natural in modern French. Saying 'La majorité des gens pensent' focuses on the individuals. Saying 'La majorité des gens pense' focuses on the group as a single entity and sounds very formal.

Q: What is the difference between 'la majorité' and 'la plupart'?

They both mean 'most' or 'the majority'. 'La plupart' is more common in everyday, casual conversation. 'La majorité' sounds slightly more formal, statistical, or political. Also, 'majorité' has the second meaning of 'legal adulthood', which 'la plupart' does not.

Q: How do I say 'to come of age' in French?

The standard expression is 'atteindre la majorité'. For example, 'Il a atteint la majorité hier' means 'He came of age yesterday'. You can also say 'devenir majeur' (to become an adult).

Q: Can I say 'une majorité' instead of 'la majorité'?

Yes, but usually only when you are adding an adjective to describe it. For example, 'une grande majorité' (a large majority) or 'une écrasante majorité' (an overwhelming majority). If you are just saying 'the majority', you must use 'la'.

Q: What does 'majorité absolue' mean?

In politics, 'majorité absolue' means getting more than 50% of the votes. It is contrasted with 'majorité relative', which means getting the most votes among the candidates, but not necessarily more than 50%.

Q: Is 'majorité' masculine or feminine?

It is a feminine noun: 'la majorité'. Any adjectives modifying it must also be feminine, such as 'la majorité silencieuse' or 'une majorité absolue'.

Q: How do I pronounce 'majorité'?

It is pronounced /ma.ʒɔ.ʁi.te/. The 'j' sounds like the 's' in the English word 'measure'. The 'r' is the guttural French R, and the final 'é' sounds like the 'ay' in 'day' but shorter.

Q: What preposition follows 'majorité'?

It is almost always followed by 'de'. When combined with plural nouns, 'de' + 'les' contracts to 'des'. So you say 'la majorité des étudiants' (the majority of the students).

Q: Can 'majorité' be used for objects as well as people?

Yes, absolutely. You can say 'la majorité des pommes' (the majority of the apples) or 'la majorité du temps' (the majority of the time).

Q: What is the opposite of 'majorité'?

The direct opposite is 'la minorité' (the minority). It follows the exact same grammatical rules regarding prepositions and verb agreement.

Top 2,000

Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas majorité em 30 segundos

Explicação majorité in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners are just beginning their journey into the French language, focusing on basic survival vocabulary, simple sentence structures, and immediate personal needs. The word 'majorité' is generally not a priority at this foundational stage. Beginners are more likely to learn simpler quantifiers such as 'beaucoup' (a lot), 'un peu' (a little), or 'tous' (all) to express general amounts. If an A1 learner encounters 'majorité', it will likely be in a highly simplified context, perhaps translated directly as 'most' in a vocabulary list. They might see it in a basic sentence like 'La majorité des gens aiment la pizza' (Most people like pizza), but they are not expected to produce this word actively or understand its grammatical nuances, such as the complex subject-verb agreement rules associated with it. Instead, teachers at this level will encourage the use of simpler, more direct expressions to convey similar ideas. The focus remains heavily on building a core vocabulary of everyday nouns, verbs, and adjectives. Therefore, while 'majorité' might be passively recognized as a cognate (due to its similarity to the English 'majority'), its active usage and deeper comprehension are reserved for higher levels of proficiency. The primary goal at A1 is simply to establish a basic communicative competence, and complex abstract nouns like 'majorité' fall outside this immediate scope. However, recognizing it as a cognate provides a small confidence boost for English speakers, demonstrating that some French vocabulary is accessible and familiar even at the very beginning of their studies.

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As learners progress to the A2 level, their ability to describe the world around them expands significantly. They begin to move beyond immediate personal needs to discuss routines, preferences, and general observations about society. At this stage, 'majorité' becomes a highly useful vocabulary word. A2 learners are introduced to the concept of expressing quantities more precisely than just 'beaucoup' or 'un peu'. They learn to use 'la majorité de' (the majority of) to make generalizations about groups of people or things. For example, an A2 student might write a simple paragraph about their classmates, stating, 'Dans ma classe, la majorité des étudiants sont espagnols' (In my class, the majority of students are Spanish). They are taught the basic structure: 'La majorité des' + plural noun. While they might still occasionally struggle with whether to use a singular or plural verb following this structure, the emphasis is on successful communication rather than perfect grammatical precision. Furthermore, A2 learners might begin to encounter the word in simple reading texts, such as short news articles or cultural descriptions, where it is used to describe demographic facts (e.g., 'La majorité des Français partent en vacances en août'). They also start to understand its opposite, 'minorité'. By mastering 'majorité' at the A2 level, learners gain a valuable tool for expressing general trends and making broader statements, which is a crucial step toward more complex and nuanced communication in French.

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At the B1 level, 'majorité' transitions from being a simple vocabulary word to a core component of the learner's expressive arsenal. B1 students are expected to engage in discussions, express opinions, and justify their viewpoints on familiar topics. 'Majorité' is essential for these tasks. Learners at this stage delve deeper into the grammatical nuances of the word. They learn the rules of agreement, understanding that 'la majorité des gens' can take either a singular verb (focusing on the group) or a plural verb (focusing on the individuals), with the plural being more common in everyday usage. This grammatical flexibility allows them to sound more natural and fluent. Moreover, B1 learners expand their use of 'majorité' beyond simple demographics. They begin to use it in more abstract contexts, such as discussing opinions ('La majorité pense que...') or habits ('Dans la majorité des cas...'). They also learn to qualify the word with adjectives, creating phrases like 'une grande majorité' (a large majority) or 'une écrasante majorité' (an overwhelming majority), which adds precision and rhetorical impact to their speech and writing. Additionally, B1 students are introduced to the legal meaning of the word: 'atteindre la majorité' (to reach the age of majority/adulthood). This cultural and legal nuance is important for understanding French society and discussing topics related to youth, rights, and responsibilities. By fully integrating 'majorité' into their active vocabulary, B1 learners demonstrate a significant leap in their ability to articulate complex thoughts and participate meaningfully in French conversations.

Reaching the B2 level signifies a high degree of independence and fluency in French. At this stage, learners are expected to understand complex texts, follow intricate arguments, and express themselves clearly and in detail on a wide range of subjects. The use of 'majorité' at the B2 level reflects this advanced capability. Learners are no longer just using the word to describe simple quantities; they are employing it in sophisticated political, sociological, and academic contexts. They comfortably navigate terms like 'majorité absolue' (absolute majority) and 'majorité relative' (relative majority) when discussing electoral systems or parliamentary debates. They use 'majorité' to analyze societal trends, write argumentative essays, and participate in formal debates. For instance, a B2 student might argue, 'Bien qu'une majorité relative soutienne cette loi, la majorité silencieuse reste sceptique' (Although a relative majority supports this law, the silent majority remains skeptical). Furthermore, B2 learners have a firm grasp of the stylistic nuances associated with the word. They know when to use 'la majorité' versus its synonyms like 'la plupart' or 'la plus grande partie', depending on the desired register and emphasis. They also master the complex grammatical structures that often accompany the word, such as using the subjunctive mood after certain expressions involving 'majorité' (e.g., 'Il est rare que la majorité soit d'accord'). At the B2 level, 'majorité' is a versatile and powerful tool that enables learners to engage deeply with French culture, politics, and intellectual discourse.

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At the C1 level, learners possess an advanced, almost native-like command of the French language. They can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Their use of 'majorité' is characterized by precision, elegance, and a deep understanding of subtle connotations. C1 learners employ the word effortlessly in highly specialized contexts, such as legal documents, academic research papers, and sophisticated literary analyses. They are acutely aware of the historical and cultural weight the word carries in French society, particularly in relation to democratic principles and the concept of the 'volonté générale' (general will). They can manipulate the word to create rhetorical effects, using phrases like 'la tyrannie de la majorité' (the tyranny of the majority) to discuss complex political philosophy. Furthermore, C1 learners master the most intricate grammatical exceptions and stylistic flourishes associated with 'majorité'. They understand how the choice between singular and plural agreement can subtly shift the focus of a sentence, and they use this knowledge deliberately to refine their writing. They also seamlessly integrate idiomatic expressions and collocations involving 'majorité' into their speech, such as 'se rallier à la majorité' (to join the majority) or 'dégager une majorité' (to secure a majority). At this level, 'majorité' is not just a word; it is a conceptual building block that allows learners to participate fully in the highest levels of French intellectual and professional life.

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The C2 level represents mastery of the French language, where learners can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read, and can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. For a C2 speaker, the word 'majorité' is wielded with the absolute precision and effortless grace of a highly educated native speaker. They understand not only the explicit definitions and grammatical rules but also the implicit cultural resonances and historical echoes of the term. A C2 user can effortlessly navigate the most esoteric legal definitions of 'majorité' (e.g., 'majorité pénale', 'majorité sexuelle') and discuss their implications with nuance and sophistication. They can analyze classic French literature or political treatises, deconstructing how authors use the concept of the majority to explore themes of conformity, power, and individual liberty. In their own production, C2 speakers use 'majorité' with a perfect sense of rhythm and style, instinctively knowing when a sentence requires the formal weight of 'la majorité' versus the lighter touch of a synonym. They can play with the word, using it ironically or subversively to challenge prevailing narratives. At the C2 level, the learner's relationship with 'majorité' transcends vocabulary acquisition; it becomes a profound engagement with the very fabric of French thought, allowing them to articulate the most complex and abstract ideas with unparalleled clarity and eloquence.

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Pratique Exemplos Notas e dicas

majorité em 30 segundos

Means 'majority' or 'most' (more than 50%).
Means 'legal age of adulthood' (18 in France).
Takes 'la' (La majorité des gens).
Verb can be singular or plural after 'de + plural'.

To fully comprehend the French noun 'majorité', one must embark on a comprehensive linguistic journey that explores its multifaceted applications across various contexts, ranging from everyday conversations to complex political discourse. At its core, 'majorité' refers to the greater number or more than half of a total, serving as the direct equivalent of the English word 'majority'. However, limiting its definition to a mere numerical superiority would be a profound oversimplification of its true semantic depth. In the realm of sociology and demographics, 'la majorité' frequently designates the dominant group within a given population, dictating cultural norms, societal trends, and collective behaviors. When we analyze how native French speakers employ this term, we observe a fascinating duality between its abstract, collective sense and its concrete, individualistic implications. For instance, when discussing public opinion, 'la majorité des Français' implies a sweeping generalization that captures the prevailing sentiment, yet it simultaneously acknowledges the existence of a minority perspective. This dynamic interplay between the majority and the minority is fundamental to understanding democratic societies and is deeply embedded in the French linguistic consciousness.

Numerical Majority: Refers strictly to a quantity that exceeds half of the total, often used in statistics, surveys, and general observations about groups of people or objects.

Legal Age of Majority: Denotes the specific age at which an individual is legally recognized as an adult, granting them full civil rights and responsibilities, which is eighteen in France.

Political Majority: Describes the political party or coalition that holds the most seats in a legislative body, enabling them to pass laws and govern effectively.

Furthermore, the concept of 'majorité' extends into the legal domain, where it signifies the age of adulthood. 'Atteindre la majorité' is a significant milestone in French culture, marking the transition from childhood to adulthood, accompanied by the acquisition of voting rights, the ability to sign contracts, and the assumption of legal liability. This dual meaning—numerical superiority and legal adulthood—requires learners to rely heavily on context to decipher the intended message.

La grande majorité des étudiants a réussi l'examen final avec mention.

Il fêtera sa majorité la semaine prochaine en organisant une grande fête.

Le gouvernement dispose d'une majorité absolue à l'Assemblée nationale.

Dans la majorité des cas, ce traitement médical est très efficace.

La majorité silencieuse commence enfin à exprimer son mécontentement.

In political contexts, the word takes on even more nuanced forms, such as 'majorité absolue' (absolute majority, more than 50%) and 'majorité relative' (relative majority, more votes than anyone else but not necessarily more than 50%). Understanding these distinctions is crucial for anyone reading French news or participating in discussions about current events. Ultimately, mastering the word 'majorité' unlocks a deeper comprehension of how French speakers quantify the world around them, articulate democratic principles, and define the boundaries of adulthood. It is a cornerstone vocabulary word that bridges the gap between simple quantitative descriptions and sophisticated societal analysis, making it an indispensable tool for any serious learner of the French language aiming for fluency and cultural literacy.

Mastering the usage of the French word 'majorité' requires a keen understanding of its grammatical integration, syntactical flexibility, and the subtle nuances that govern its application in both spoken and written discourse. One of the most critical aspects of using 'majorité' correctly lies in the rules of subject-verb agreement, a topic that frequently causes consternation among learners and even native speakers. When 'la majorité' is used alone as the subject of a sentence, it is treated as a singular feminine noun, and consequently, the verb must be conjugated in the third-person singular. For example, 'La majorité a voté pour ce candidat' (The majority voted for this candidate). However, the grammatical landscape becomes significantly more complex when 'la majorité' is followed by the preposition 'de' and a plural noun complement, forming expressions like 'la majorité des gens' (the majority of people) or 'la majorité des étudiants' (the majority of students). In these instances, French grammar offers a degree of flexibility known as 'syllepsis' or agreement by sense.

Singular Agreement: Focuses on the group as a single, unified entity. Example: 'La majorité des votants a approuvé la loi.' This is slightly more formal and emphasizes the collective decision.

Plural Agreement: Focuses on the multiple individuals comprising the group. Example: 'La majorité des gens pensent que c'est une erreur.' This is the most common usage in modern French, both spoken and written.

Without a Noun Complement: When 'la majorité' stands alone, it strictly takes a singular verb. Example: 'La majorité est d'accord avec cette proposition.'

Beyond agreement, the usage of 'majorité' is heavily influenced by the adjectives and prepositions that accompany it. To intensify the meaning, speakers frequently employ adjectives such as 'grande' (great), 'écrasante' (overwhelming), or 'vaste' (vast). Thus, 'une écrasante majorité' conveys a sense of undeniable, sweeping consensus. Conversely, when discussing the legal age, the phrase 'atteindre la majorité' (to reach the age of majority) is the standard, idiomatic way to express becoming an adult.

Une écrasante majorité de citoyens s'est prononcée contre cette réforme controversée.

Dès qu'il aura atteint sa majorité, il compte passer son permis de conduire.

La majorité des enfants aiment jouer dehors pendant les vacances d'été.

Pour être élu au premier tour, il faut obtenir la majorité absolue des suffrages exprimés.

Dans la grande majorité des situations, il vaut mieux rester calme et patient.

It is also essential to recognize the common prepositional phrase 'dans la majorité des cas' (in the majority of cases), which functions as an adverbial locution meaning 'mostly' or 'usually'. This phrase is incredibly versatile and can be used to introduce a general rule or observation in both formal essays and casual conversations. By paying close attention to these syntactical rules and common collocations, learners can deploy the word 'majorité' with the confidence and precision of a native speaker, ensuring their French is not only grammatically correct but also stylistically authentic and contextually appropriate.

The omnipresence of the word 'majorité' in the French language means that learners will encounter it across a vast spectrum of contexts, from the mundane to the highly formal. Its frequency is a testament to its utility in expressing concepts of quantity, consensus, and legal status. One of the most prominent arenas where 'majorité' dominates the discourse is in the realm of politics and news media. French journalism, with its deep-rooted tradition of political analysis and societal commentary, relies heavily on this term to dissect election results, parliamentary debates, and public opinion polls. Whether reading Le Monde, listening to France Inter, or watching the evening news on TF1, one is virtually guaranteed to hear phrases like 'la majorité présidentielle' (the presidential majority), 'une majorité de blocage' (a blocking minority/majority), or discussions about whether a proposed law has the backing of 'la majorité des députés' (the majority of deputies).

Political News: Used constantly during elections, parliamentary sessions, and political debates to describe the balance of power and voting outcomes.

Sociological Studies: Frequently appears in documentaries, articles, and reports analyzing demographic trends, consumer behavior, and societal shifts.

Everyday Conversation: Employed casually to describe general tendencies among friends, family, or colleagues, such as 'la majorité de mes amis' (most of my friends).

Beyond the political sphere, 'majorité' is a staple of everyday conversational French. It serves as a more sophisticated alternative to 'la plupart' (most), allowing speakers to express generalizations with a touch of formality. In a professional setting, a manager might state that 'la majorité des clients sont satisfaits' (the majority of clients are satisfied), while in a casual context, someone might observe that 'la majorité des films d'horreur sont prévisibles' (the majority of horror movies are predictable).

Au journal télévisé, le présentateur a annoncé que la majorité des syndicats a signé l'accord.

Dans les discussions familiales, on rappelle souvent aux adolescents les responsabilités qui viennent avec la majorité.

Les sondages montrent qu'une large majorité de la population soutient la transition écologique.

Lors de la réunion d'entreprise, la majorité des employés a voté pour le télétravail.

Dans les cours de droit, le concept de majorité pénale est un sujet d'étude fondamental.

Furthermore, the concept of legal majority is a frequent topic of discussion among young people and parents. The phrase 'fêter sa majorité' (to celebrate one's coming of age) is a cultural touchstone, often associated with significant parties, the acquisition of a driver's license, and the symbolic entry into the adult world. This dual presence in both high-level societal discourse and intimate personal milestones makes 'majorité' a word that resonates deeply within the French cultural landscape. By actively listening for 'majorité' in these diverse contexts, learners can develop a more intuitive grasp of its meaning and usage, moving beyond rote memorization to a true, internalized understanding of how the word functions within the living ecosystem of the French language.

Despite its apparent simplicity and direct equivalence to the English word 'majority', the French noun 'majorité' is a frequent source of errors for learners, primarily due to grammatical nuances and false equivalencies. One of the most pervasive mistakes involves the omission of the definite article. In English, it is perfectly natural to say 'Majority rules' or 'Majority of people think...'. However, in French, the noun 'majorité' almost always requires a determiner, typically the definite article 'la'. Saying 'Majorité des gens pensent...' is grammatically incorrect; it must always be 'La majorité des gens pensent...'. This requirement stems from the French language's strict rules regarding noun determination, where abstract concepts and general categories must be introduced by an article. Another significant stumbling block is the confusion between 'majorité' and its related adjective 'majeur'. Learners often attempt to use 'majorité' as an adjective, resulting in nonsensical phrases.

Missing the Article: Incorrect: 'Majorité des étudiants étudient.' Correct: 'La majorité des étudiants étudient.' Always include the definite article 'la' unless using an indefinite article like 'une' (e.g., une grande majorité).

Confusing Noun and Adjective: Incorrect: 'Il est majorité.' Correct: 'Il est majeur.' Use 'majeur(e)' to describe someone who is of legal age, and 'majorité' for the concept or the group.

Preposition Errors: Incorrect: 'La majorité dans les gens.' Correct: 'La majorité des gens.' The preposition 'de' (often contracted to 'des') is required to link 'majorité' to the group it describes.

Furthermore, the rules of agreement, as previously discussed, can lead to hypercorrection. A learner might rigidly apply the singular verb rule to 'la majorité des gens', resulting in 'la majorité des gens est...', which, while technically acceptable in formal writing, sounds overly stiff and unnatural in everyday conversation, where the plural 'sont' is vastly preferred. It is crucial to strike a balance and adapt the agreement to the register of the communication.

❌ Faux: Majorité de mes amis aiment le football.
✅ Vrai: La majorité de mes amis aiment le football.

❌ Faux: Quand tu seras majorité, tu pourras voter.
✅ Vrai: Quand tu auras atteint la majorité, tu pourras voter. (Ou: Quand tu seras majeur...)

❌ Faux: Il a gagné par une majorité absolue.
✅ Vrai: Il a gagné avec une majorité absolue.

❌ Faux: Dans majorité des cas, c'est facile.
✅ Vrai: Dans la majorité des cas, c'est facile.

❌ Faux: La majorité des informations est fausses.
✅ Vrai: La majorité des informations sont fausses. (Agreement with the plural noun 'informations').

Finally, learners sometimes overuse 'majorité' when a simpler term like 'la plupart' (most) would be more idiomatic. While 'la majorité des gens' is perfectly correct, 'la plupart des gens' is often preferred in casual speech for its brevity and fluidity. Recognizing these subtle stylistic preferences is key to achieving true fluency. By remaining vigilant against these common pitfalls, learners can refine their use of 'majorité', ensuring their French communication is accurate, natural, and highly effective.

To build a rich and nuanced French vocabulary, it is essential not only to understand the word 'majorité' but also to familiarize oneself with its synonyms and related terms. The French language offers a variety of expressions to convey the idea of 'most' or 'the greater part', each carrying its own subtle connotations and stylistic appropriateness. The most common and direct synonym for 'la majorité' is 'la plupart' (most/the majority). While they are often interchangeable, 'la plupart' is generally preferred in everyday, informal conversation due to its brevity and ease of pronunciation. For example, 'La plupart des gens aiment le chocolat' is slightly more common in casual speech than 'La majorité des gens aiment le chocolat', although both are perfectly correct. However, 'majorité' retains a slightly more formal, analytical, or statistical edge.

La plupart: The most common everyday synonym for 'the majority' or 'most'. It almost always takes a plural verb when followed by a plural noun. Example: 'La plupart des étudiants sont là.'

La plus grande partie: Translates to 'the largest part' or 'the greater part'. It emphasizes the physical or metaphorical size of the portion being discussed. Example: 'La plus grande partie du budget est allouée à l'éducation.'

L'essentiel: Meaning 'the essential part' or 'the main part'. It is used when the majority constitutes the core or most important aspect of something. Example: 'L'essentiel du travail est terminé.'

Another useful expression is 'la plus grande partie' (the greatest part), which is often used when discussing physical quantities, time, or abstract concepts that can be divided into portions. For instance, 'Il a passé la plus grande partie de sa vie en France' (He spent the greater part of his life in France). Furthermore, terms like 'le plus grand nombre' (the greatest number) or 'la généralité' (the generality) can be employed in more literary or formal contexts to express a similar idea. Understanding these nuances allows learners to select the most precise and appropriate word for their intended meaning, elevating their French from competent to sophisticated.

Bien que la majorité ait voté pour, une minorité vocale s'y oppose toujours.

La plupart de mes collègues sont en vacances, mais la majorité du travail doit quand même être faite.

Il a consacré la plus grande partie de son discours à remercier la majorité silencieuse.

L'essentiel des troupes a été déployé, représentant la vaste majorité de nos forces armées.

Pour le plus grand nombre, cette décision est incompréhensible, même si la majorité l'accepte.

Conversely, it is equally important to know the antonyms of 'majorité'. The most direct opposite is 'minorité' (minority), which functions in much the same way grammatically and conceptually. Understanding the dichotomy between 'majorité' and 'minorité' is essential for discussing demographics, politics, and social dynamics in French. By expanding your vocabulary to include these synonyms and related terms, you will be able to express complex ideas about quantity and proportion with greater precision, elegance, and stylistic variety, significantly enhancing your overall proficiency in the French language.

How Formal Is It?

Nível de dificuldade

Gramática essencial

L'accord du verbe avec les noms collectifs

L'utilisation des articles définis avec les concepts abstraits

Les prépositions de quantité (de/des)

Le subjonctif après certaines expressions de doute ou de nécessité

La différence entre les adjectifs et les noms (majeur vs majorité)

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Exemplos por nível

La majorité aime le chocolat.

Most like chocolate.

Simple subject-verb agreement in the singular.

C'est la majorité.

It is the majority.

Used as a simple predicate noun.

La majorité des chats dorment.

Most cats sleep.

Introduction to 'des' + plural noun.

Une grande majorité dit oui.

A large majority says yes.

Adding a simple adjective 'grande'.

La majorité est ici.

The majority is here.

Using 'être' to indicate presence.

Je suis avec la majorité.

I am with the majority.

Used with the preposition 'avec'.

La majorité des pommes sont rouges.

Most apples are red.

Plural agreement with the noun 'pommes'.

Pour la majorité, c'est bien.

For the majority, it is good.

Used with the preposition 'pour'.

Dans ma classe, la majorité des élèves sont français.

In my class, the majority of students are French.

Using 'dans' to establish context.

La majorité de mes amis habitent à Paris.

The majority of my friends live in Paris.

Plural verb 'habitent' agreeing with 'amis'.

Il a obtenu la majorité des votes.

He got the majority of the votes.

Used as the direct object of 'obtenir'.

La majorité du temps, je lis le soir.

Most of the time, I read in the evening.

Idiomatic expression for 'most of the time'.

Une petite majorité a choisi ce restaurant.

A small majority chose this restaurant.

Using 'petite' to qualify the majority.

La majorité des magasins sont fermés le dimanche.

Most shops are closed on Sundays.

Describing a general rule or habit.

À 18 ans, on atteint la majorité en France.

At 18, you reach the age of majority in France.

Introduction to the legal meaning of the word.

La majorité des gens préfèrent l'été à l'hiver.

Most people prefer summer to winter.

Expressing general preferences.

Le gouvernement a besoin d'une majorité absolue pour passer cette loi.

The government needs an absolute majority to pass this law.

Introduction of political terminology 'majorité absolue'.

Dans la majorité des cas, ce médicament n'a pas d'effets secondaires.

In the majority of cases, this medicine has no side effects.

Common adverbial phrase 'dans la majorité des cas'.

Elle organisera une grande fête pour célébrer sa majorité.

She will organize a big party to celebrate her coming of age.

Using 'majorité' as a personal milestone.

Bien qu'il ait la majorité, il doit écouter l'opposition.

Even though he has the majority, he must listen to the opposition.

Used with the concessive conjunction 'bien que'.

La grande majorité des scientifiques s'accordent sur le changement climatique.

The vast majority of scientists agree on climate change.

Using 's'accorder' (to agree) with a collective subject.

Il a été élu avec une très faible majorité.

He was elected with a very slim majority.

Qualifying the noun with 'très faible'.

La majorité silencieuse ne s'exprime pas souvent dans les médias.

The silent majority does not often express itself in the media.

Introduction of the sociological concept 'majorité silencieuse'.

La majorité de l'équipe est prête pour le tournoi.

The majority of the team is ready for the tournament.

Singular agreement emphasizing the team as a single unit.

L'obtention de la majorité qualifiée est requise pour modifier la constitution.

Obtaining a qualified majority is required to amend the constitution.

Advanced political/legal term 'majorité qualifiée'.

Il est impératif que la majorité des actionnaires valide cette fusion.

It is imperative that the majority of shareholders validate this merger.

Subjunctive mood triggered by 'Il est impératif que'.

Le passage à la majorité implique de nouvelles responsabilités civiles et pénales.

Coming of age implies new civil and criminal responsibilities.

Abstract usage discussing the implications of adulthood.

Cette tendance est désormais adoptée par l'écrasante majorité des consommateurs.

This trend is now adopted by the overwhelming majority of consumers.

Strong collocation 'écrasante majorité'.

Le parti au pouvoir a perdu sa majorité lors des élections législatives.

The ruling party lost its majority during the legislative elections.

Discussing the loss of political power.

La majorité des sondés se déclarent pessimistes quant à l'avenir économique.

The majority of respondents declare themselves pessimistic about the economic future.

Plural agreement with the reflexive verb 'se déclarent'.

Il s'est rangé à l'avis de la majorité pour éviter un conflit ouvert.

He sided with the majority's opinion to avoid an open conflict.

Idiomatic expression 'se ranger à l'avis de'.

La notion de majorité numérique soulève des questions éthiques complexes.

The concept of digital majority raises complex ethical questions.

Modern legal concept 'majorité numérique' (age of digital consent).

La tyrannie de la majorité est un concept central dans la pensée d'Alexis de Tocqueville.

The tyranny of the majority is a central concept in the thought of Alexis de Tocqueville.

Philosophical concept 'tyrannie de la majorité'.

Le gouvernement a dû recourir à l'article 49.3 faute de pouvoir dégager une majorité claire.

The government had to resort to article 49.3 for lack of being able to secure a clear majority.

Advanced political vocabulary 'dégager une majorité'.

L'abaissement de la majorité pénale est un sujet de controverse récurrent dans le débat public.

Lowering the age of criminal responsibility is a recurring subject of controversy in public debate.

Legal terminology 'majorité pénale'.

Il a su rallier la majorité des suffrages grâce à un discours rassembleur et visionnaire.

He managed to rally the majority of the votes thanks to a unifying and visionary speech.

Sophisticated verb choice 'rallier'.

La majorité de la doctrine juridique s'accorde à dire que cette jurisprudence est obsolète.

The majority of legal doctrine agrees that this case law is obsolete.

Academic/legal context using 'doctrine juridique'.

Dans une démocratie représentative, la majorité gouverne mais doit respecter les droits de la minorité.

In a representative democracy, the majority governs but must respect the rights of the minority.

Contrasting 'majorité' and 'minorité' in a theoretical context.

L'écrasante majorité des données corrobore l'hypothèse initiale du chercheur.

The overwhelming majority of the data corroborates the researcher's initial hypothesis.

Scientific context using 'corroborer'.

L'acquisition de la majorité n'est qu'une étape symbolique dans le long processus de maturation.

The acquisition of majority is but a symbolic step in the long process of maturation.

Abstract, philosophical reflection on adulthood.

La constitutionnalité de la loi a été validée par la majorité des sages du Conseil constitutionnel.

The constitutionality of the law was validated by the majority of the wise men of the Constitutional Council.

Highly specific institutional vocabulary 'Conseil constitutionnel'.

Il s'est érigé en porte-à-faux par rapport à la majorité bien-pensante de son époque.

He set himself at odds with the right-thinking majority of his time.

Complex idiomatic structure 's'ériger en porte-à-faux'.

La dialectique entre la majorité agissante et la minorité de blocage paralyse l'institution.

The dialectic between the acting majority and the blocking minority paralyzes the institution.

Advanced political science terminology.

C'est par une majorité de circonstance que ce texte clivant a pu être adopté in extremis.

It is by a majority of circumstance that this divisive text could be adopted at the last minute.

Nuanced phrase 'majorité de circonstance' (ad hoc majority).

L'auteur fustige l'aveuglement d'une majorité grégaire prompte à sacrifier ses libertés.

The author castigates the blindness of a gregarious majority quick to sacrifice its freedoms.

Literary vocabulary 'fustiger', 'grégaire'.

La fixation de la majorité sexuelle demeure un point d'achoppement dans l'harmonisation du droit européen.

Fixing the age of sexual consent remains a stumbling block in the harmonization of European law.

Specialized legal term 'majorité sexuelle'.

Il a su subvertir les codes imposés par la majorité dominante pour imposer sa propre vision esthétique.

He knew how to subvert the codes imposed by the dominant majority to impose his own aesthetic vision.

Artistic/critical context using 'subvertir'.

La prééminence de la majorité ne saurait justifier l'oblitération des droits inaliénables de l'individu.

The preeminence of the majority cannot justify the obliteration of the inalienable rights of the individual.

Highly formal, philosophical register.

Sinônimos

plupart masse généralité plus grand nombre

Antônimos

minorité exception

Colocações comuns

la grande majorité

l'écrasante majorité

la majorité absolue

la majorité relative

la majorité silencieuse

atteindre la majorité

la majorité présidentielle

dans la majorité des cas

la majorité qualifiée

la majorité pénale

Frases Comuns

dans la majorité des cas

pour la majorité

la majorité l'emporte

avoir la majorité

obtenir la majorité

perdre la majorité

fêter sa majorité

la majorité des gens

une majorité de blocage

se rallier à la majorité

Frequentemente confundido com

majorité vs Majeur (adjective meaning 'of legal age' or 'major')

majorité vs La plupart (synonym, but 'la plupart' doesn't mean 'legal age')

majorité vs Maximum (refers to the highest limit, not just more than half)

Expressões idiomáticas

"la loi de la majorité"

"la majorité silencieuse"

"faire majorité"

"majorité de circonstance"

"majorité d'idées"

"majorité de projet"

"majorité de gestion"

"majorité de gouvernement"

"majorité de rechange"

"majorité de gauche/droite"

Fácil de confundir

majorité vs

Padrões de frases

Cadastre-se grátis para ver todos os exemplos

Como usar

note

While 'majorité' is highly useful, be careful not to overuse it in casual speech where 'la plupart' is more idiomatic. Reserve 'majorité' for when you want to sound slightly more precise, statistical, or formal.

Erros comuns

Omitting the definite article 'la' before 'majorité'.
Using 'majorité' as an adjective instead of 'majeur'.
Forgetting the preposition 'de' (or 'des') after 'majorité'.
Overthinking the verb agreement; using the plural is usually fine.
Using 'majorité' when 'la plupart' would sound more natural in casual speech.

Dicas

Don't Forget the Article

Never say 'Majorité des gens'. Always include the definite article: 'La majorité des gens'. French requires articles before abstract nouns.

Plural is Safer

When in doubt about verb agreement after 'la majorité des...', use the plural verb. It is the most common usage and sounds perfectly natural to native speakers.

Legal Age

Remember that 'majorité' isn't just about numbers; it's about age. 'Fêter sa majorité' is a very common phrase for an 18th birthday party.

Use Adjectives for Impact

To make your French sound more advanced, don't just say 'la majorité'. Say 'une vaste majorité' (a vast majority) or 'une écrasante majorité' (an overwhelming majority).

Absolue vs Relative

If you read French news, know the difference between 'majorité absolue' (>50%) and 'majorité relative' (the biggest group, but <50%). It's crucial for understanding French politics.

Mix it up with 'La plupart'

To avoid sounding repetitive, alternate between 'la majorité' and 'la plupart' in your writing and speaking. They are highly interchangeable in most contexts.

Watch the Final Accent

Make sure you pronounce the 'é' at the end of 'majorité'. If you drop it, it might sound like you are trying to say an English word with a French accent.

Dans la majorité des cas

Memorize the phrase 'dans la majorité des cas' (in the majority of cases). It's a fantastic filler phrase to start a sentence when you want to make a general statement.

Majorité vs Majeur

Don't use 'majorité' as an adjective. You cannot say 'Il est majorité'. You must say 'Il est majeur' (He is of legal age).

The Silent Majority

The term 'la majorité silencieuse' is frequently used in French political discourse to refer to the masses who do not protest or speak out publicly.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of the 'MAJOR' part of the group. The MAJORity is the biggest part.

Origem da palavra

From Medieval Latin 'majoritas', derived from Latin 'major' (greater).

Contexto cultural

The voting age (majorité électorale) in France was lowered from 21 to 18 in 1974 by President Valéry Giscard d'Estaing.

While you can start learning to drive at 15 (conduite accompagnée), you can only get your full license and drive alone when you reach 'la majorité' (18).

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Iniciadores de conversa

"Penses-tu que la majorité a toujours raison ?"

"Comment as-tu fêté ta majorité ?"

"Dans ton pays, à quel âge atteint-on la majorité ?"

"La majorité de tes amis partagent-ils tes opinions politiques ?"

"Est-ce que la majorité silencieuse existe vraiment ?"

Temas para diário

Raconte le jour où tu as atteint la majorité. Qu'est-ce qui a changé pour toi ?

Écris sur un sujet où ton opinion diffère de celle de la majorité.

Analyse les résultats de la dernière élection dans ton pays. Qui a obtenu la majorité ?

Dans la majorité des cas, comment réagis-tu face au stress ?

Décris les avantages et les inconvénients de suivre la majorité.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas