minor subjects

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "minor subjects" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to topics or areas of study that are considered less significant or secondary in a particular context, such as education or research. Example: "In our curriculum, students can choose to focus on major subjects, but they are also encouraged to explore minor subjects that interest them."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

In those days the common minor subjects were physics and economics.

Science Magazine

Mr Kerr told BBC Radio 4's World at One programme the school had already considered cuts to what he termed "the minor subjects like music, art" - but he warned "that would really narrow the curriculum severely for our students".

BBC

Scientists working in long-term projects will have to move on and be replaced in 6-year intervals, and researchers working on weakly institutionalized minor subjects or new research trends may not be permitted to continue their work.

Science Magazine

For those people who are interested in seeing the segments about one of their favorite parks, here is a brief overview of which national parks are featured in each episode both as major and minor subjects based on my imperfect notes.

Huffington Post

For both SNPs, the minor allele in subjects with diabetes was associated with less favorable cholesterol and glucose measures, compared to those with diabetes who lacked the minor allele (G) for the 3u386 SNP and compared to non-homozygous minor subjects (GG and AG) for the m482 SNP.

Plosone

Minor subjects provided written assent.

Diabetes Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

But number theory was regarded as a minor subject, largely of recreational interest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Michel Sapin told French radio: "This is not a minor subject, it's not about speed or the quality of leather.

The Guardian - Business

I'm doing only mathematics and don't have to choose a minor subject, which you have to do at many German universities.

The Guardian

Under the system, students opting for Leicester University will be able to select what they study from a series of "major" and "minor" subject options.

Independent

J. Liebling, Calvin Trillin, the French writer Robert Courtine, and any good restaurant critic) is essentially comic and treats the small ambitions of the greedy eater as though they were big and noble, spoofing the idea of the heroic while raising the minor subject to at least temporary greatness.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing academic curricula, use "minor subjects" to clearly distinguish them from major areas of study. For instance, 'While her major was biology, she also took several "minor subjects" such as art history and philosophy.'

Common error

Avoid implying that "minor subjects" are inherently unimportant. Frame them as supplementary or complementary to the major, emphasizing their value in providing a broader educational foundation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "minor subjects" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It denotes academic disciplines or topics that are considered secondary or less emphasized compared to major subjects. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate for written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Science & Research

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "minor subjects" is a noun phrase used to describe secondary academic disciplines. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While the phrase is most commonly found in science, news, and research contexts, it’s important to avoid implying that these subjects are unimportant. Instead, emphasize their complementary value. Consider using "alternative phrases" like "secondary subjects" or "supplementary subjects" to provide nuance. Remember to contextualize the term appropriately for your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small subjects

Indicates a similarity in size or scope.

less important subjects

Emphasizes the lower priority or significance.

secondary subjects

Highlights that these subjects are not the primary focus.

lesser subjects

Similar to 'less important' but with a slightly different nuance.

non-core subjects

Specifically indicates subjects outside the core curriculum.

supplementary subjects

These subjects complement the main areas of study.

elective subjects

Highlights the optional nature of these subjects.

optional subjects

Focuses on the choice students have in selecting these subjects.

underage subjects

Refers to participants who are below the legal age.

smaller subjects

Refers to subjects with lower enrollment.

FAQs

How does "minor subjects" relate to the concept of a 'minor' in college?

In college, a 'minor' is a secondary area of study complementing your major. Therefore, "minor subjects" are the individual courses you take to fulfill the requirements of your minor. For example, if your minor is in history, your "minor subjects" might include courses in American history, European history, and ancient civilizations.

What are some "alternative phrases" for "minor subjects" in academic writing?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "secondary subjects", "supplementary subjects", or "non-core subjects" to refer to subjects that are not the primary focus of study.

Is it correct to use "minor subjects" when referring to topics of lesser importance in a general discussion?

Yes, while "minor subjects" is commonly used in an educational context, it can also refer to topics of lesser importance in a broader discussion. However, be mindful of the audience and context to ensure the term is appropriate.

How does the meaning of "minor subjects" differ from "major subjects"?

"Major subjects" are the primary focus of study in a degree program, while "minor subjects" are secondary and typically require fewer credit hours. The major provides in-depth knowledge in a specific field, whereas the minor offers a broader, more diverse skill set.