族

• Pinyin: zú
• Hanzi breakdown: 族 = 方 (direction/region) + 㫃 (flag with arrows), representing a clan banner

Meaning

Ethnic group; clan; tribe; a group sharing common ancestry or characteristics.

Used to denote ethnic groups (民族), clans, or social groups sharing characteristics. China officially recognizes 56 ethnic groups (民族). Also used as a suffix for social groups like 上班族 (office workers).

Examples

1. 中国是一个多民族国家，各族人民和谐共处。 China is a multi-ethnic country where people of all ethnic groups live in harmony.
2. 他正在研究西南地区少数民族的传统服饰和手工艺。 He is researching the traditional clothing and handicrafts of ethnic minorities in the southwest region.
3. 这个古老的部族保留着独特的语言和宗教信仰。 This ancient tribe has preserved a unique language and religious beliefs.

Usage Guide

Context: ethnicity, anthropology, society

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 他是哪个民族的？(Which ethnic group is he from?)
• 这个族群有独特的文化。(This ethnic group has a unique culture.)

Don't Say

• 我的族是学生。(For social groups, use the full compound like 学生党, not 族 alone)

Origin & History

Originally depicted an arrow with feathers, representing a clan identified by distinctive arrow markings. Extended to mean groups sharing common ancestry.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal