Definition of Family
Quick Meaning of Family
A group of people related by blood or marriage living in the same household.
Detailed Definition of Family
Parents and their children living together.
How to Pronounce Family
Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).
Tip: Stress on first syllable; ends with 'lee' sound.
Watch out: Sometimes stressed on second syllable incorrectly.
Origin and Etymology of Family
From Latin 'familia' meaning household servants.
How to Use Family in a Sentence
Each example shows “family” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“My family visits grandparents every weekend.”
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“She comes from a large family with five siblings.”
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“The family business has operated for three generations.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Family
Common Synonyms for Family
Smart Synonyms for Family — When to Use Each
- household
- people living in the same home
- relatives
- broader term for all blood relations
- kin
- more formal or archaic term
Common Collocations with Family
These phrases pair with “family” in everyday English:
- family member
- family reunion
- start a family
- family time
- extended family
Common Mistakes When Using Family
Even fluent speakers slip up with “family”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: My family are very happy.
- ✓ Correct: My family is very happy.
- Why: Family is a collective singular noun in standard English; use singular verb.
- ✗ Wrong: He spend time with his family.
- ✓ Correct: He spends time with his family.
- Why: Subject-verb agreement: 'he' requires 'spends' not 'spend'.
Other Forms of Family
Frequently Asked Questions About Family
What is the meaning of "Family"?
A group of people related by blood or marriage living in the same household.
How do you pronounce "Family"?
The IPA is /ˈfæməli/. Stress on first syllable; ends with 'lee' sound.
What part of speech is "Family"?
"Family" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Family"?
Common synonyms include household, relatives, kin.
How do you use "Family" in a sentence?
For example: "My family visits grandparents every weekend."