Learn 20 English Collocations with ‘Family’
Many of us, all over the world gather with family during December and January. Perhaps you’ve just celebrated a family Christmas or a New Year’s Dinner with your loved ones, or maybe you’re preparing for Lunar New Year and a chance to catch up with more distant relatives. Today I’ve got a useful list of English collocations with the word family, along with their meanings and example sentences.
When learning English, using the right combinations of words helps you sound more natural and fluent. These common word combinations, called collocations, frequently appear together and are important for building your vocabulary.
1. Close-knit family
Definition: A family where members are emotionally close and supportive of each other.
Example: I come from a close-knit family; we always share our joys and problems.
2. Nuclear family
Definition: A family consisting of parents and their children, typically living in the same household.
Example: In many Western cultures, the nuclear family is the most common household structure.
3. Extended family
Definition: A family unit that includes not only parents and children but also grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Example: In some cultures, the extended family plays a crucial role in raising children.
4. Family values
Definition: The moral and ethical principles traditionally upheld within a family.
Example: Our family values emphasise honesty, respect, and kindness towards others.
5. Family traditions
Definition: Customs or practices passed down from generation to generation within a family.
Example: Every year, we celebrate Christmas with our family traditions, including a big feast and exchanging gifts.
6. Start a family
Definition: To have children and establish a family unit.
Example: After getting married, they decided to start a family and have children.
7. Family reunion
Definition: A gathering of family members who may not see each other frequently.
Example: We organise a family reunion every five years to bring everyone together and catch up on each other's lives.
8. Family ties
Definition: Strong connections or relationships within a family.
Example: Despite living in different countries, the family ties remained strong, and they stayed in regular contact.
9. Family tree
Definition: A diagram that represents the relationships between different generations of a family.
Example: She spent hours researching her family tree to trace back her ancestors.
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10. Family outing
Definition: A planned excursion or trip involving family members.
Example: We had a delightful family outing to the beach last weekend.
11. Family budget
Definition: A financial plan outlining income and expenditures for a household.
Example: Creating a family budget helps manage expenses and save for future needs.
12. Family dynamics
Definition: The patterns of interactions and relationships among family members.
Example: Understanding family dynamics is crucial for maintaining a healthy and happy household.
13. Family meal
Definition: A shared meal among family members.
Example: We make an effort to have a family meal together at least once a day to strengthen our bond.
14. Family responsibilities
Definition: Duties and tasks each family member is expected to fulfill.
Example: As part of our family responsibilities, we all contribute to keeping the house clean and organised.
15. Family history
Definition: The narrative of a family's past, including significant events and achievements.
Example: Learning about your family history can provide a sense of identity and belonging.
16. Family support
Definition: Emotional, financial, or practical assistance provided by family members.
Example: During difficult times, having family support can make a tremendous difference in overcoming challenges.
17. Family album
Definition: A collection of photographs or memories documenting the history of a family.
Example: Looking through the family album brings back fond memories of our holidays and celebrations.
18. Family time
Definition: Dedicated periods when family members spend quality time together.
Example: Sunday evenings are reserved for family time, where we play games and enjoy each other's company.
19. Single-parent family
Definition: A family structure where only one parent is responsible for raising and supporting the children.
Example: She successfully manages her career and the needs of her children in a single-parent family.
20. Dysfunctional family
Definition: A family unit characterised by unhealthy relationships, communication issues, or patterns of behavior that negatively impact its members.
Example: Therapy can be helpful in addressing and resolving conflicts within a dysfunctional family.
