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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'family' with 家 (jiā)

    Existence & Possession
    Topic & Focus

    Structure

    家人

    Explanation

    The word 家 (jiā) can mean 'family' or 'home' and is one of the most fundamental words in Chinese. When combined with 人 to form 家人 (jiārén), it specifically means 'family members.' It is used broadly in daily conversation to refer to one's household or the people one lives with.

    Examples

    • 过年的时候，家人都会聚在一起吃饭。

      guònián de shíhou, jiārén dōu huì jù zài yìqǐ chīfàn.

      During the New Year, family members all gather together to eat.

    • 不管走到哪里，我都会想念家人。

      bùguǎn zǒu dào nǎlǐ, wǒ dōu huì xiǎngniàn jiārén.

      No matter where I go, I will miss my family.

    • 她经常打电话给家人报平安。

      tā jīngcháng dǎ diànhuà gěi jiārén bào píng'ān.

      She often calls her family to let them know she's safe.

    Similar Grammar

    Expressing 'family' with 家 (jiā) | Chinese Grammar