Translation guide
The study of family history and lineage, or a recorded family tree. In Japanese, the concept is expressed through specific terms for the field of study, a family record, or a diagram of ancestry.
He majored in genealogy at university.
Another term for genealogy as a study, emphasizing the creation and analysis of family trees.
The study of genealogy is deeply connected to history.
Referring to a physical or written record of a family's ancestry, such as a chart or book.
The most common word for a family tree diagram or chart. Used in everyday conversation about family history.
My grandmother showed me an old family tree.
A slightly more formal or historical term for a genealogical chart or record. Often used in historical contexts.
A formal, often historical term for a family record or genealogy book. Rare in modern casual use.
Talking about someone's family background or descent without a specific document.
Refers to family lineage or bloodline. Commonly used in phrases like '家系を調べる' (to research one's lineage).
I want to look into my genealogy.
Emphasizes bloodline or descent. Slightly more biological or hereditary nuance.
Refers to one's origin or background, including family lineage. Often used in formal contexts.
家系図 is the everyday word for a family tree, while 系図 is more formal and often used in historical or academic contexts. For most learners, 家系図 is the safer choice.
To say 'I'm researching my genealogy,' use 家系を調べている (かけいをしらべている). Avoid literal translations like 系図学をしている, which sounds unnatural for a personal hobby.
この系図は江戸時代まで遡れる。
This genealogy can be traced back to the Edo period.
That family genealogy has been carefully preserved for generations.
彼は武士の血筋を引いている。
He is descended from samurai.
彼の出自は明らかではない。
His genealogy is not clear.