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Nederlands
familie — meaning in English: family
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family
intrigeren
tot ziens
verdiepen
samenleving
familie
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neutral
very common
Usage
Native Dutch speakers often use the word 'familie' in personal conversations, especially when discussing gatherings or relationships. For instance, during family events or holidays like Christmas, you might hear, 'We komen samen met de familie,' meaning 'We are gathering with the family.' It's also common in everyday situations when talking about one's relatives or social connections.
Synonyms & nuances
'Familie' is a general term that encompasses all relatives, while 'verwanten' specifically refers to blood relatives. You would choose 'familie' when discussing your entire social network of relatives, but 'verwanten' might be used in more formal contexts, such as legal discussions about inheritance.
Culture
The word 'familie' has its roots in the Latin word 'familia,' which referred to a household or family unit, including servants and slaves in ancient Rome. In Dutch culture, family is often considered a cornerstone of social life, with gatherings and traditions emphasizing the importance of kinship, especially during major life events like weddings and funerals.
FAQ
