familie — meaning in English: family

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bringen

familie

wissen

damit

meine

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neutral very common

Usage

Native German speakers frequently use the word 'Familie' in casual conversations, especially during family gatherings or when discussing personal matters. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Meine Familie kommt zu Besuch,' meaning 'My family is coming to visit,' when talking about upcoming family events.

Synonyms & nuances

While 'Familie' means 'family,' another word, 'Verwandtschaft,' refers specifically to relatives or kin. You would use 'Familie' when talking about your immediate family, whereas 'Verwandtschaft' emphasizes broader familial connections.

Culture

'Familie' has roots in the Latin word 'familia,' which referred to a household or family unit. In German culture, family plays a crucial role, often considered the cornerstone of social life, with gatherings for holidays and birthdays being a cherished tradition. The concept of family extends beyond blood relations, often including close friends and community members.

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of 'Familie' in German?

'Familien' is the plural form of 'Familie.' You would use it when referring to multiple families, such as in a sentence like, 'Die Familien feiern zusammen,' meaning 'The families celebrate together.'

Q.Is 'Familie' used in formal settings?

'Familie' is a neutral term, making it appropriate in both informal and formal contexts. You can use it in business-related discussions, for instance, when addressing work-life balance issues, as in 'Die Familie spielt eine wichtige Rolle in meinem Leben,' meaning 'Family plays an important role in my life.'

Q.How do you use 'Familie' in a sentence?

You can use 'Familie' in various sentences, such as 'Ich liebe meine Familie,' which translates to 'I love my family.' It's common to describe family activities, relationships, and events.

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