The spelling of the word "nonmajority" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable of the word is pronounced [nɑn], with the "n" sound followed by the "ah" sound. The second syllable is pronounced [məˈdʒɑrəti], with the "m" sound followed by the schwa sound, then "dʒ" as in "judge", "ah" again, and "r" with a short "i" sound, and "ti" as in "city". The word means not constituting the largest number or part.
Nonmajority is an adjective that refers to something or someone that does not constitute the largest or predominant part, group, or proportion. It denotes a situation, entity, or attribute that falls outside the framework of being most numerous, prevalent, or influential. The term emphasizes the existence or significance of a minority or smaller portion within a particular context.
In a demographic or statistical sense, nonmajority signifies a group or category that does not encompass the majority of individuals within a population or sample. This can pertain to various aspects such as racial, ethnic, religious, or gender groups that make up a lesser share of the total population.
In a socio-political context, nonmajority refers to political parties, stakeholders, or viewpoints that do not possess the majority of power, representation, or influence within a given system or decision-making process. Such nonmajority entities or perspectives may face challenges in terms of having their interests recognized or implemented due to the dominance of the majority.
Furthermore, nonmajority can also apply to situations where a particular option, choice, or preference does not receive the highest number of votes, approvals, or endorsements compared to other alternatives. Nonmajority in this sense suggests that the prevailing or most popular option may not necessarily reflect the opinions or desires of each individual or subgroup involved.
Overall, the term "nonmajority" conveys the concept of being outside the larger, prevailing, or significant part of a population, context, or choice, highlighting the presence and importance of minority or alternative elements.
The word nonmajority is formed by combining the prefix non- which means not or without, and the word majority.
The term majority originates from the Latin word major meaning greater or greater in number. In English, it was first used in legal contexts in the 16th century to refer to a number of votes or voices needed to exceed half or more than half of the total.
The prefix non- is of Latin origin as well, and is commonly used in English to indicate negation, absence, or the opposite of something.
Therefore, the word nonmajority can be understood as not being the greater or larger number or the opposite of a majority.