Pronunciation: [mˈe͡ɪd͡ʒə wˈɔː] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "major war" is fairly straightforward. "Major" is spelled with a silent "j" and the "o" is pronounced like "ah" (/ˈmeɪdʒər/). "War" is spelled as it sounds (/wɔːr/), with the "a" pronounced like "oar". Together, these two words create the phrase "major war" (/ˈmeɪdʒər wɔːr/), which refers to a significant armed conflict between nations or factions, often involving large-scale violence and destruction.
Major war is a descriptive term used to classify a particular kind of armed conflict that encompasses certain significant characteristics and repercussions. It refers to a large-scale and highly significant military confrontation that involves two or more substantial and organized forces, such as nations or alliances. A major war is typically characterized by extensive mobilization of troops and resources, prolonged duration, high levels of violence and casualties, and significant global or regional impact.
In order for a conflict to be classified as a major war, it must surpass the threshold of mere skirmishes or localized conflicts. It involves systematic and sustained warfare, often with formal declarations of war by the involved parties. Major wars frequently arise from complex geopolitical issues, territorial disputes, ideological differences, or competition for resources, and they tend to have profound political, economic, and social consequences.
The magnitude of a major war extends beyond the immediate combat zone, as it can impact neighboring regions, disrupt international trade, affect financial markets, and cause widespread human suffering. Due to their scale and scope, major wars often draw the attention and involvement of multiple countries, leading to alliances and coalitions, as well as diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.
The term "major war" is subjective and open to interpretation depending on the context and historical period. It encompasses wars like World War I and World War II, as well as conflicts such as the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Its defining characteristics ensure that major wars are distinct from smaller-scale conflicts or sporadic skirmishes.
The term "major war" does not have a distinct etymology of its own, as it is composed of two words with separate origins.
The word "major" originated from the Latin word "major" meaning "greater" or "larger". It was later adopted into Old French as "majeur". The term eventually made its way into English during the 15th century, carrying the same meaning of something of greater size or importance.
On the other hand, the word "war" is derived from the Old English word "wyrre" which meant "conflict" or "fighting". This Old English word itself is believed to have Germanic roots.
So, the phrase "major war" is simply a combination of these two words, indicating a conflict or fighting of significant scale or importance.
