major character

USAGE SUMMARY

"major character" is a valid phrase and can be used in written English.
It refers to a significant or important character in a story, play, or movie. Example: Harry Potter is the major character in the eponymous book series, while Ron and Hermione are his loyal friends and supporting characters.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A major character.

The Guardian

"He makes major character revelations with the smallest of gestures".

The New York Times

Every major character is a minor character, too.

The New York Times - Books

Rankin: It's a major character because it has influenced Rebus.

The Guardian - Books

*Contrive the abduction or capture of a beloved major character.

The New York Times - Books

Hitler is a major character in German history.

The Guardian - Arts

True, one major character, a research scientist, has been jettisoned.

The New York Times

The plot was familiar, although one major character switched sides.

The New York Times

"The environment is a major character in each show.

The New York Times

In all three, the house is a major character.

The New York Times

Tonight's action brings the third major character into the story.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a "major character", provide specific examples of their actions or traits that demonstrate their importance to the story. Don't just state that they are important; show why.

Common error

Avoid labeling every character as a "major character". Doing so dilutes the term's meaning and can confuse readers about who is genuinely central to the narrative. Reserve the term for those whose actions directly drive the plot or significantly impact other characters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "major character" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a significant person, figure, or entity in a narrative, historical event, or other context. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and is commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "major character" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that identifies an important figure in a narrative or context. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is valid and widely used. It primarily functions as a noun phrase, with the communicative purpose of emphasizing significance. Its neutral register allows it to be used across various sources, including news, media, and encyclopedic entries. Remember to use the term judiciously, reserving it for figures central to the plot or themes to avoid diluting its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

principal character

Focuses on the leading or primary role of the character.

main character

Highlights the central importance of the character to the narrative.

key figure

Emphasizes the character's importance and influence.

central protagonist

Specifies the character's role as the main driver of the story.

lead character

Indicates the character with the most prominent role.

pivotal character

Highlights the character's significance in turning points of the story.

significant character

Emphasizes the character's importance without specifying their exact role.

important character

Similar to significant, but with a slightly broader connotation of relevance.

prominent figure

Describes a character who is easily noticeable and has a significant impact.

essential character

Highlights that the character is needed and necessary for the story to unfold.

FAQs

How to use "major character" in a sentence?

You can use "major character" to describe a significant figure in a story, for example: "The protagonist is the "major character" in the novel.".

What can I say instead of "major character"?

You can use alternatives like "main character", "principal character", or "key figure" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "major character" or "main character"?

Both "major character" and "main character" are correct and often interchangeable. However, "major character" emphasizes importance while "main character" emphasizes centrality to the plot.

What makes a character a "major character" in a story?

A "major character" is typically defined by their significant impact on the plot, their involvement in key events, and the extent to which their development influences the narrative's themes and resolution.