遺族

• Reading: いぞく
• Romaji: izoku
• Kanji breakdown: 遺 (i/yui) — leave behind, bequeath, will; 族 (zoku) — family, clan, tribe
• Pronunciation: /i.zo.kɯ/

Meaning

Bereaved family; surviving family; family of the deceased. Those left behind after someone's death.

A noun used in formal and legal contexts to refer to the family members of a person who has died. Appears frequently in news reports about accidents, disasters, and criminal cases. Also important in legal matters regarding 遺族年金 (izoku nenkin, survivor's pension) and inheritance. Carries a solemn, respectful tone and is never used casually.

Examples

1. 事故の遺族に対して会社が謝罪した。 The company issued an apology to the families of the accident victims.
2. 遺族年金の申請手続きを行った。 I went through the process of applying for the survivor's pension.
3. 遺族の気持ちを考えると胸が痛む。 It breaks my heart when I think about how the bereaved families must feel.

Usage Guide

Context: news, legal, social welfare

Tone: solemn

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 遺 (i, leave behind/bequeath) + 族 (zoku, family/clan). Literally 'the family left behind' — those who remain after a member's death.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal