身内

• Reading: みうち
• Romaji: miuchi
• Kanji breakdown: 身 (mi) — body, self, person; 内 (uchi) — inside, within, among
• Pronunciation: /mi.ɯ.tɕi/

Meaning

Relatives; one's family; close relations. People connected by blood or marriage.

A noun with a warmer, more intimate nuance than the formal 親戚 (shinseki, relatives). 身内 implies closeness and loyalty — people you consider your inner circle. Can extend beyond blood relations to mean people within your group or organization (身内の恥, miuchi no haji, an embarrassment within the group). Often used when discussing family matters, funerals, or trust circles.

Examples

1. 身内だけで小さなお祝いをした。 We had a small celebration with just family.
2. 身内に医者がいるので安心だ。 I feel at ease knowing there's a doctor in the family.
3. この話は身内にも言わないでほしい。 Please don't share this with anyone, even family.

Usage Guide

Context: family, social groups, ceremonies

Tone: warm

Origin & History

From Japanese: 身 (mi, body/self) + 内 (uchi, inside/within). Literally 'within one's body/self' — those who belong to one's inner circle.

Cultural Context

Era: Traditional

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal