Translation guide
The concept of 'family line' refers to lineage, ancestry, or the continuation of a family through generations. In Japanese, this is expressed through various terms that emphasize bloodline, household, or descent, with nuances depending on context and formality.
To refer to one's family line, ancestry, or descent in a broad sense.
The most common and neutral term for family line or lineage, often used in contexts like genealogy or family background.
Emphasizes bloodline or genetic lineage, often used when talking about inherited traits or noble ancestry.
彼女は芸術家の血筋だ。
She comes from a line of artists.
A more formal or technical term for bloodline, often used for animals (pedigree) or in historical contexts.
この犬は優れた血統だ。
This dog has an excellent pedigree.
To refer to the family line in terms of the household (ie) system, including succession and family name.
Refers to the family as a household or lineage, especially in traditional contexts. It implies the continuation of the family name and property.
家を継ぐ。
To succeed to the family line (as head of the household).
あの家は代々医者だ。
That family line has been doctors for generations.
Means clan or extended family, often used for prominent families or in historical contexts.
To specify a direct line of descent, such as male line or female line.
To talk about the family line continuing or dying out.
Means the family line dies out or becomes extinct.
その家系は絶えてしまった。
That family line has died out.
To leave descendants, to continue the bloodline.
彼は血筋を残さずに亡くなった。
He died without leaving any descendants.
家系 (かけい) is the most general term for family line or lineage. 血筋 (ちすじ) emphasizes blood relationship and is often used for talents or traits. 家 (いえ) refers to the household as a social unit and is tied to traditional family succession.
The English phrase 'family line' is often best translated as 家系 or 血筋, not a direct combination like 家族の線. Always consider the context: lineage, household, or descent.
源氏の一族。
The Minamoto clan.
男系の天皇。
An emperor from the male line.