mean the majority

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mean the majority" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the interpretation or significance of something that applies to most people or a large group. Example: "When we say 'the average person,' we often mean the majority of individuals in society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

The move will mean the majority of lodger landlords will avoid paying tax altogether.

The Guardian - Money

But that doesn't mean the majority of us have nothing at all.

The Guardian - Tech

Traditions around menstruation mean the majority of Nepali girls miss days of school.

The Guardian

Cuts to legal aid mean the majority of defendants now appear unrepresented.

The Guardian

Traditional views about menstruation mean the majority of Nepali girls are prevented from going to school.

The Guardian

"The victory doesn't mean the majority of Taiwanese support Taiwan independence".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

"The legislature" means the majority Democrats.

The New York Times

That means the majority of electors of all the states.

The New York Times

This means the majority are actually located elsewhere.

The Guardian

That means the majority of people are wrong.

The Guardian - Film

And that means the majority, not 60 votes, would rule.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “mean the majority” to clearly indicate that a statement or action primarily concerns or affects the larger portion of a group, avoiding ambiguity about its scope.

Common error

Avoid using “mean the majority” when the statement actually applies only to a significant portion but not necessarily over 50% of the group, as this can mislead readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mean the majority" serves as a quantifier or clarifier, specifying that a particular effect, characteristic, or condition applies to more than half of a defined group. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its usage in various contexts to denote prevalence or widespread impact.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

24%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Science

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mean the majority" is a commonly used phrase to indicate that something applies to more than half of a group. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently found in news, academic, and professional contexts. It is used to ensure clarity and avoid overgeneralizations. Alternatives include "affect the majority" and "apply to most". To use it effectively, ensure that the situation truly involves over 50% of a group.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Represent the greater number

Similar to encompassing the bulk, but in relation to the numbers in a group.

Reflect widespread opinion

Specifically highlights the reflection of common views or beliefs.

Affect the majority

Highlights the impact on the larger part, emphasizing consequence.

Pertain to the majority

Focuses on relevance or connection to the majority, using slightly more formal language.

Cover the greater part

Indicates inclusion and scope, slightly less direct than the original phrase.

Be generally applicable

Emphasizes the broad usability or suitability, shifting from direct representation.

Apply to most

Focuses on the application or relevance to the larger part, rather than direct representation.

Indicate general trends

Focuses on broad patterns rather than specific group representation.

Signify the mainstream

Connects the meaning to what is considered typical or conventional within a group.

Encompass the bulk

Emphasizes volume or quantity rather than simple majority.

FAQs

How can I use "mean the majority" in a sentence?

Use "mean the majority" to indicate that something affects or applies to more than half of a specific group. For instance, "The new regulations mean the majority of small businesses will need to update their software."

What's a good substitute for "mean the majority"?

Alternatives include "affect the majority", "apply to most", or "represent the greater number", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "mean the majority" in formal writing?

Yes, “mean the majority” is suitable for formal writing as long as it accurately reflects that more than half of a group is being discussed.

What's the difference between "affect the majority" and "mean the majority"?

"Affect the majority" emphasizes the impact on the larger part, whereas "mean the majority" focuses on indicating that the larger part is being referred to.