親戚

• Reading: しんせき
• Romaji: shinseki
• Kanji breakdown: 親 (shin) — parent, intimate; 戚 (seki) — relative
• Pronunciation: /ɕiɴ.se.ki/

Meaning

Relative; relation. Members of one's extended family.

A noun referring to family members beyond the immediate household, including uncles, aunts, cousins, and in-laws. An important concept in Japanese culture, where family gatherings (especially during New Year and Obon) bring relatives together. Distinguished from 家族 (immediate family) by the broader scope.

Examples

1. お正月に親戚が集まった。 Relatives got together for New Year's.
2. 大阪に親戚が住んでいる。 I have relatives living in Osaka.
3. 親戚の結婚式に出席した。 I attended a relative's wedding.

Usage Guide

Context: family, holidays, social events

Tone: warm

Origin & History

Composed of 親 (parent, intimate) and 戚 (relatives, grief). The kanji 戚 specifically refers to family relations, and together with 親 emphasises close kinship bonds.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal