Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Family" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "family", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
家柄
いえがら (iegara)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
犬神持ち
いぬがみもち (inugamimochi)
C2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "family" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 家柄 and 犬神持ち.
In Japanese, 家柄 (いえがら (iegara)) is typically associated with "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..
On the other hand, 犬神持ち (いぬがみもち (inugamimochi)) maps to "family possessing a dog spirit" (Syllabus Level: C2) and represents Essential structural term in CEFR C2 vocabulary syllabus.. A literal translation of "family" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "家柄"
彼女は名門の家柄の出身だ。
She comes from a distinguished family lineage.
Bilingual Context for "犬神持ち"
私は犬神持ちに興味があります。
I am interested in family possessing a dog spirit.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼女は名門の ＿＿＿ の出身だ。" (Meaning: "She comes from a distinguished family lineage.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "家柄" fits here because it means "family lineage, social standing of a family" in the context of: "She comes from a distinguished family lineage.". "犬神持ち" represents "family possessing a dog spirit".