Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'blood relative' is expressed through specific terms that distinguish between close and distant relations, as well as formal and casual contexts. Unlike English, Japanese often uses different words for one's own family versus others' families, and the most natural way to refer to blood relatives depends on the social situation.
To refer to a person related by blood, in a general or formal sense.
The standard, neutral term for a blood relative. Suitable for formal and written contexts.
He is not my blood relative.
A legal or formal term for blood relatives, often used in contexts like inheritance or family registry.
Documents proving blood relationship are required.
Refers to close blood relatives, especially immediate family like parents, siblings, and children. Carries an emotional nuance of deep familial bonds.
The bond between close blood relatives is more important than anything.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'relatives connected by blood.' Used when emphasizing the biological link, often in contrast to relatives by marriage.
Only blood relatives gathered.
To refer to a close blood relative like a parent, child, or sibling, often in everyday conversation.
Commonly used for immediate blood relatives. Note: when referring to one's own family members in conversation, specific kinship terms (e.g., 父, 母, 兄) are more natural.
He is my blood relative (immediate family).
In Japanese, it is more natural to specify the exact relationship (e.g., 父 'father', 母 'mother', 兄 'older brother') rather than using a generic term like 'blood relative.' This is especially true when talking about your own family.
My father is a doctor. (Natural way to refer to a blood relative)
To refer to a relative by blood who is not immediate family, such as a cousin or second cousin.
Means 'distant relative' and can include both blood and marriage relations, but often implies blood relation in context.
He is a distant relative.
Explicitly states 'distant relative connected by blood.' Useful for clarity.
To emphasize that someone is a blood relative as opposed to an in-law or step-relative.
Often used in the phrase 血縁関係 (blood relationship) to contrast with 姻戚関係 (relationship by marriage).
Blood relationships and relationships by marriage are legally different.
Literally 'blood connection,' used in casual or emotional contexts to stress biological ties.
Even without a blood connection, we are family.
The English phrase 'blood relative' is often not directly translated in natural Japanese conversation. Instead, Japanese speakers use specific kinship terms (e.g., 父, 母, 兄) or context-dependent expressions. Using 血縁者 in casual speech may sound overly formal or technical.
血縁者 is a formal, legal term for any blood relative, while 肉親 refers specifically to close blood relatives (parents, children, siblings) and carries emotional weight. Use 肉親 when emphasizing deep familial bonds.
I have two older sisters. (Natural way to refer to blood relatives)
A distant blood relative lives in America.