Translation and Meaning of: 親類 - shinrui

The Japanese word 親類 [しんるい] is a term that sparks curiosity among students and enthusiasts of the language. If you've ever wondered about its meaning, translation, or how to use it in everyday life, this article will clarify those questions. Furthermore, we will explore its origin, cultural context, and even tips for memorizing it effectively. Whether to enrich your vocabulary or to better understand the Japanese language, this practical guide will help.

Meaning and translation of 親類 [しんるい]: relatives.

親類[しんるい] is a word that means "relatives" or "family members" in Japanese. It refers to people connected by blood ties or marriage, such as uncles, cousins, or brothers-in-law. Unlike 家族[かぞく] (immediate family), 親類 encompasses more distant relatives, including those who may not interact on a daily basis.

In the Portuguese translation, it's important to note that 親類 does not have an exact equivalent, as the concept of "kinship" can vary between cultures. While in Brazil we tend to separate close and distant relatives, in Japan this distinction is clearer, and 親類 helps to define these degrees of relationship.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The word 親類 is made up of two kanjis: 親 (shin), which means "parents" or "kinship," and 類 (rui), which translates as "type" or "category." Together, they convey the meaning of "group of relatives." This combination is logical and aids in memorization, as the radicals reinforce the overall meaning.

It is worth noting that 親 also appears in other related words, such as 親戚[しんせき] (close relatives) and 親子[おやこ] (parents and children). This kanji is often used in terms that involve family relationships, which helps to identify its use in different contexts.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, 親類 is a common word, but not as frequent as 家族. It appears more in formal contexts or when it is necessary to specify the degree of kinship. For example, in legal documents or conversations about inheritance, the term is used to differentiate close relatives from more distant ones.

Culturally, Japanese people tend to value the nuclear family (parents and children), while 親類 often play a less central role in daily life. This reflects a society where immediate relationships are prioritized, but broader ties are still recognized, especially on occasions like festivals or ceremonies.

Tips for memorizing 親類[しんるい]

An effective way to memorize 親類 is to associate it with similar words, such as 親戚[しんせき]. Both share the kanji 親 and refer to relatives, creating a helpful mental connection. Another strategy is to practice with simple sentences, such as "私の親類は多い" (watashi no shinrui wa ooi – "I have many relatives").

Additionally, remember that 類 is a versatile kanji, appearing in terms like 人類[じんるい] (humankind) and 種類[しゅるい] (type). Recognizing this pattern helps decode other words and reinforces the learning of 親類 in the process.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 親族 (Shinzoku) - Close relatives group, including immediate family members.
• 家族 (Kazoku) - Immediate family, usually parents and children.
• 血縁者 (Ketsuen-sha) - People united by blood ties, emphasizing biological kinship.
• 親戚 (Shinsetsu) - Relatives, including both close and distant relatives.

親類

Romaji: shinrui
Kana: しんるい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: relationship; relatives

Meaning in English: relation;kin

Definition: Family members and relatives related by blood.

Example Sentences - (親類) shinrui

See below some example sentences:

私の親類はたくさんいます。

Watashi no shinrui wa takusan imasu

I have many relatives.

• 私 - personal pronoun that means "I"
• の - particle that indicates possession or belonging
• 親類 - noun that means "relatives"
• は - Particle indicating the topic of the sentence
• たくさん - adverb that means "many"
• います - verb that means "to exist" or "to be present" (in the affirmative present)