Translation guide
The English word 'clan' can refer to a family-based social group, a faction in games or fiction, or a tight-knit community. Japanese has distinct words for each nuance.
A traditional extended family group, often with a common ancestor, especially in historical or cultural contexts.
The most common and versatile word for a family clan or lineage, used in both historical and modern contexts.
彼は有名な一族の出身だ。
He comes from a famous clan.
Often used for a family group with a shared profession or art, like a school of martial arts or traditional performance.
彼は歌舞伎の一門に属している。
He belongs to a kabuki clan.
Historical term for a clan or family group in ancient Japan, often used in academic or historical contexts.
古代の有力な氏がこの地域を支配した。
Powerful ancient clans ruled this region.
A group of players or characters united under a common name, often in video games, fantasy, or sci-fi.
The direct loanword from English, widely used in gaming and online communities.
新しいクランに参加した。
I joined a new clan.
Often used interchangeably with クラン in MMORPGs, though 'guild' is the direct English equivalent.
Sometimes used in fantasy settings to describe a clan-like group, but less common than クラン.
A close group of people who share interests, background, or loyalty, not necessarily family.
Means 'companions' or 'close group', often used for a circle of friends or colleagues with strong bonds.
彼らはまるで仲間のように助け合っている。
They help each other like a clan.
A group or band, often used for a cohesive unit, but can sound slightly formal.
Using 一族 for a gaming clan or a group of friends can sound odd or overly dramatic. Stick to クラン for gaming and 仲間 for close-knit communities.
We are recruiting guild members.
ドワーフの一族が山に住んでいる。
A dwarf clan lives in the mountains.
彼らは一団となって行動する。
They act as a clan.