1. Numerical Minority: This is the most common meaning. It refers to a group of people who constitute less than half of the total population.
* Example: "In the United States, women make up a minority of the population."
2. Social or Political Minority: This refers to a group that has less power, influence, or representation than the majority.
* Example: "The LGBTQ+ community is often considered a social minority due to discrimination and prejudice."
3. Legal Minority: This refers to the age below which a person is considered legally incompetent to make certain decisions, such as voting or entering contracts.
* Example: "In most countries, the age of legal minority is 18."
4. "Minority" as a Term of Respect: It's important to note that while "minority" can refer to a numerical group, it's often used in a broader sense to refer to groups who have historically faced oppression or discrimination. In this sense, "minority" is a term used to acknowledge and respect their unique experiences.
It's important to be mindful of the context and the nuances of the term "minority" when using it.