Translation guide
A diagram showing family relationships, or the concept of lineage. Japanese distinguishes between a physical chart and the abstract notion of ancestry.
The learner wants to refer to a drawn or printed chart showing how family members are related.
The standard word for a family tree diagram. Used for both personal family trees and historical lineages.
The learner wants to talk about someone's family background or descent, not a physical chart.
Refers to family lineage or bloodline. Often used when discussing ancestry or inherited traits.
The literal translation '家族の木' (kazoku no ki) is not used in Japanese and will cause confusion. Use 家系図 or ファミリーツリー for the chart, and 家系 for the abstract concept.
祖父が家系図を作ってくれた。
My grandfather made a family tree for us.
This family tree goes back to the Edo period.
A slightly more formal or technical term for a genealogical chart, often used in historical contexts.
The family's genealogy is very complex.
A loanword from English, commonly understood, especially in casual or educational settings.
I drew a family tree for a school project.
He comes from a samurai lineage.
When I researched my ancestry, I discovered surprising facts.
Literally 'bloodline', emphasizes biological descent. Can sound slightly dramatic or old-fashioned.
Musical talent runs in the family.
A formal term for genealogy or pedigree, often used in academic or historical writing.
This paper analyzes the genealogy of the imperial family.