for generations; generation after generation
Emphasizes continuity across many generations, both past and future. Often used in formal or solemn contexts such as family lineage, traditions, or blessings.
This land has been passed down for generations.
We visited the shrine to pray for the prosperity of our descendants for generations to come.
子孫 means 'descendants' without the temporal 'generation after generation' nuance. 子孫代々 adds the continuous, multi-generational aspect.
Standard modern spelling.
Old-style spelling using 代代 instead of 代々; rarely seen in modern writing.
Compound of 子孫 (descendants) and 代々 (for generations). The combination reinforces the idea of an unbroken line of descendants across many generations.