Minor facts for kids
The word minor can have a few different meanings, depending on how it's used. It can refer to a young person who is not yet considered an adult by law. It can also describe a type of musical scale that often sounds sad or serious.
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What Does 'Minor' Mean?
The word "minor" helps us understand two very different things. In one sense, it talks about age and legal status. In another sense, it describes a specific sound in music. Both uses are important to know.
A Minor as a Young Person
When someone talks about a minor in legal terms, they mean a person who is not yet old enough to be considered an adult. This age is called the age of majority. Once a person reaches this age, they gain full legal rights and responsibilities.
Becoming an Adult in the Eyes of the Law
The age of majority is usually 18 years old in many countries, including the United States and Canada. However, it can be different in other places. For example, in some parts of the world, it might be 16 or 21. When a person reaches this age, they can do things like vote in elections, sign contracts, and make their own big decisions without needing a parent or guardian to approve. Before this age, a minor's parents or guardians are usually responsible for them and make many decisions on their behalf.
Minor in Music
In music, a minor scale is a series of musical notes that has a specific sound. When you hear music played in a minor key, it often sounds more serious, sad, or thoughtful compared to music played in a major scale, which usually sounds bright and happy.
Understanding Minor Scales and Keys
A minor scale is built using a particular pattern of whole steps and half steps between notes. This pattern gives it its unique sound. There are actually a few types of minor scales, like the natural minor, harmonic minor, and melodic minor. Each one has a slightly different feel. When a song is said to be in a "minor key," it means it uses the notes from a minor scale as its main musical foundation. Many popular songs, movie soundtracks, and classical pieces use minor keys to create different moods and emotions.
