Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Family" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "family", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
家族
かぞく (kazoku)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
家柄
いえがら (iegara)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "family" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 家族 and 家柄.
In Japanese, 家族 (かぞく (kazoku)) is typically associated with "family" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Refers to one's own family or a general concept of family. When talking about someone else's family, you might use ご家族.
On the other hand, 家柄 (いえがら (iegara)) maps to "family lineage, social standing of a family" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Noun. Refers to the social status, reputation, or ancestry of a family, often implying a historical or traditional background. Can be used to describe 'good' or 'bad' lineage.. A literal translation of "family" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "家族"
私の家族は五人です。
My family has five people.
Bilingual Context for "家柄"
彼女は名門の家柄の出身だ。
She comes from a distinguished family lineage.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "私の ＿＿＿ は五人です。" (Meaning: "My family has five people.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "家族" fits here because it means "family" in the context of: "My family has five people.". "家柄" represents "family lineage, social standing of a family".