JLPT N5 Family Vocabulary and Relationship Terms Explained

Understanding family terms is an important part of JLPT N5. Japanese has specific vocabulary for family members, and it’s crucial to know the readings, kanji, and context for proper usage. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you master family vocabulary.

1. Immediate Family Members

Kanji	Hiragana	Meaning
父	ちち	Father (used when talking about your own father)
母	はは	Mother (used when talking about your own mother)
兄	あに	Older brother
弟	おとうと	Younger brother
姉	あね	Older sister
妹	いもうと	Younger sister
子	こ	Child
息子	むすこ	Son
娘	むすめ	Daughter

2. Extended Family

Kanji	Hiragana	Meaning
祖父	そふ	Grandfather (own)
祖母	そぼ	Grandmother (own)
おじ	おじ	Uncle
おば	おば	Aunt
甥	おい	Nephew
姪	めい	Niece

3. Talking About Other People’s Family

When talking about someone else’s family, add honorifics “お” or “ご” before the word:

• お父さん（おとうさん）Father (someone else)
• お母さん（おかあさん）Mother (someone else)
• お兄さん（おにいさん）Older brother
• お姉さん（おねえさん）Older sister

4. Family Vocabulary Tips

• Use kanji to distinguish between your family and others (e.g., 父 vs お父さん).
• Remember readings carefully as some kanji have multiple readings depending on context.
• Practice forming sentences:
  • 私の母は優しいです。 (わたしのはははやさしいです。My mother is kind.)
  • 兄は学生です。 (あにはがくせいです。My older brother is a student.)
• Use flashcards for memorizing relatives’ vocabulary efficiently.

5. Practice Questions

1. How do you say “my younger sister” in Japanese?
2. Translate “Grandfather” for your own family.
3. What is the correct term for someone else’s mother?
4. Form a sentence: “My father is a teacher.”
5. How do you say “niece” in Japanese?