At the A1 level, you don't need to use '子孫' (shison) in your daily speaking. You should focus on the word '子供' (kodomo) for children and 'おじいちゃん/おばあちゃん' (ojiichan/obaachan) for grandparents. However, it is good to recognize 'shison' as a word that means 'many children and grandchildren in the future.' Think of it like a very big family tree that keeps growing down. If you see it in a simple story, just remember it means 'the family that comes after you.' You might see it in a picture book about animals having babies. The most important thing for A1 is not to confuse it with 'sosen' (ancestors), which are the people who came before you like your great-grandparents.
At the A2 level, you can start to understand '子孫' (shison) when you hear it in simple news reports or nature documentaries. You might learn that animals work hard to 'shison o nokosu' (leave behind offspring). This is a common phrase. You should also know that 'shison' is a more formal word than 'kodomo.' While 'kodomo' is used for the kids you see every day, 'shison' is used when talking about the future of a whole family or species. You might see this word in a basic history lesson about a famous person and their family. Try to remember the two parts: '子' (child) and '孫' (grandchild). Together they mean the whole line of people coming after someone.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use '子孫' (shison) in discussions about the environment, history, or society. This is the level where you start talking about 'shison no tame ni' (for the sake of our descendants). For example, when talking about climate change, you can say we need to protect the Earth for our 'shison.' You should also understand its use in historical contexts, such as identifying the 'shison' of a samurai or a famous leader. At this level, you should distinguish 'shison' from 'atotsugi' (successor). 'Shison' is about blood and family, while 'atotsugi' is about who takes over a job or a shop. You can also start using the plural form 'shison-tachi' to sound more natural when talking about groups of people in the future.
At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of '子孫' (shison) in various registers. You will encounter it in literature, formal speeches, and scientific texts. You should understand the nuance of 'shison daidai' (descendants for generations) and how it relates to the Japanese 'Ie' system. You should also be comfortable using 'shison' in the passive voice, such as 'shison ni uketsugareru' (to be inherited by descendants). At this level, you can compare 'shison' with 'matsuei' (descendants of a noble line) and 'kousei' (future generations/posterity). You should be able to explain the importance of 'shison' in Japanese culture, such as the duty to maintain the family grave for future 'shison.'
At the C1 level, you should be able to use '子孫' (shison) with high precision in academic or professional settings. This includes understanding its use in genetics ('kyotsu no shison'), legal documents regarding inheritance, and philosophical debates about our responsibility to the future. You should recognize 'shison' in classical literature or archaic forms and understand how the concept has evolved over time. You should be able to discuss complex topics like the declining birthrate in Japan and its impact on the 'shison' of the nation. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's gravitas and its ability to evoke a sense of historical continuity and moral obligation.
At the C2 level, '子孫' (shison) is a word you use to weave sophisticated arguments about legacy, evolution, and the human condition. You understand the deepest nuances, such as when 'shison' is used metaphorically to describe the 'descendants' of an idea or a movement. You can critique literary works that center on the theme of 'shison' and explain how it differs from Western concepts of 'posterity.' You are comfortable with all idiomatic expressions and can use the word in high-level legal, scientific, or poetic contexts without hesitation. You understand the subtle social implications of the word in modern Japan, including its role in debates about family law and the imperial succession.

子孫 en 30 segundos

  • 子孫 (shison) means 'descendants' or 'offspring,' referring to all future generations of a person or species.
  • It is a formal word, unlike 'kodomo' (children), and is common in history, biology, and legacy-focused discussions.
  • The word is the direct antonym of 'sosen' (ancestors), forming the future half of a family lineage.
  • Common phrases include 'shison o nokosu' (to leave offspring) and 'shison no tame ni' (for the sake of descendants).

The Japanese word 子孫 (しそん - shison) is a formal and comprehensive term used to describe the lineage that follows an individual, a family, or a species. Composed of the kanji for 'child' (子) and 'grandchild' (孫), it literally translates to 'children and grandchildren,' but its conceptual scope extends to all future generations. In English, it is most closely matched by the words descendant, offspring, or posterity. Understanding this word requires looking at it through both a biological lens and a cultural one. Biologically, it refers to the genetic continuation of a line. Culturally, in Japan, it often carries a weight of responsibility, implying the preservation of a family name, traditions, and assets.

Biological Context
In scientific or natural contexts, 'shison' refers to the progeny of animals or plants. For example, 'shison o nokosu' (to leave behind descendants) is the fundamental goal of reproduction in the natural world.
Historical and Genealogical Context
When discussing history, 'shison' identifies the living relatives of historical figures. For instance, someone might claim to be a 'shison' of a famous samurai or a noble family, establishing a direct link to the past.
Environmental and Ethical Context
In modern discourse regarding climate change or debt, 'shison' is used to refer to 'future generations.' Phrases like 'shison no tame ni' (for the sake of our descendants) emphasize the long-term impact of current actions.

私たちは、豊かな自然を子孫に残すべきだ。
(We should leave a rich natural environment for our descendants.)

The word is predominantly used in formal writing, lectures, documentaries, and serious conversations. While you wouldn't typically use it when talking about your own children in a casual setting (where 'kodomo' or 'musuko/musume' would be used), it is perfectly appropriate when discussing the long-term future of your family line or the human race. It carries a sense of gravity and continuity, connecting the individual to a timeline much larger than their own lifespan. In the context of the Japanese 'Ie' (house) system, ensuring the prosperity of one's 'shison' was historically considered the highest duty of a household head.

彼は徳川家の直系の子孫だと言われている。
(He is said to be a direct descendant of the Tokugawa family.)

In literature and film, 'shison' often appears in themes involving curses, legacies, or destiny. A character might be burdened by the sins of their ancestors or blessed by their virtues, all within the framework of being a 'shison.' This word evokes a sense of permanence and the inescapable nature of one's origin. Whether discussing the survival of an endangered species or the inheritance of a family business, 'shison' is the go-to term for describing those who will carry the torch forward.

Using 子孫 (shison) correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a noun and its typical collocations with verbs and particles. Because it is a formal word, it often appears in structures that emphasize preservation, inheritance, or prosperity. It is frequently followed by particles like 'ni' (to/for), 'ga' (subject), or 'o' (object), depending on whether the descendants are receiving something, performing an action, or being acted upon.

Verb Pairing: 残す (Nokosu - To leave)
The most common phrase is 'shison o nokosu' (to leave descendants/offspring). This can be biological (having children) or metaphorical (leaving a legacy). Example: 'Kono doubutsu wa shison o nokosu no ga muzukashii' (It is difficult for this animal to leave offspring).
Verb Pairing: 繁栄する (Han'ei suru - To prosper)
Used when wishing for the success of future generations. 'Shison ga han'ei suru koto o inoru' (I pray that my descendants will prosper).
Noun Modifiers: 代々の (Daidai no - Generation after generation)
'Shison daidai' is a common set phrase meaning 'descendants for generations to come.' It emphasizes a long, unbroken line of succession.

この家系は、子孫が絶えてしまった。
(This family line has run out of descendants.)

When describing someone as a descendant of a specific person, the pattern is '[Person/Group] no shison.' This is a very common way to express lineage. For instance, 'Kare wa kizoku no shison desu' (He is a descendant of the nobility). In legal or formal documents, you might see 'shison' used to define heirs or beneficiaries who are biologically related to the deceased. It is also used in plural contexts without any change in form, as Japanese nouns do not typically change for plurality.

遠い未来の子孫たちは、私たちの時代をどう見るだろうか。
(How will our distant descendants view our era?)

In academic writing, particularly in biology or anthropology, 'shison' is used to discuss the evolution of species. 'Kyotsu no shison' (common ancestor/descendant relationship) is a key phrase. In these contexts, the word is strictly technical and lacks the emotional weight of family lineage. However, in political speeches, the word is often loaded with emotion to inspire people to think about the legacy they are leaving for the youth of the future. By mastering 'shison,' you gain a word that bridges the gap between scientific precision and deep cultural sentiment.

You are likely to encounter 子孫 (shison) in a variety of high-level or specialized settings. While it is not a word you would use to ask your friend about their kids, it is omnipresent in Japanese media that deals with history, science, and social issues. Understanding the typical environments where this word appears will help you grasp its register and appropriate usage.

News and Documentaries
In nature documentaries (like those on NHK), the narrator will often talk about animals trying to 'shison o nokosu' (leave offspring) in harsh environments. In news reports about historical discoveries, you might hear about 'shison' of a newly identified historical figure being found in a rural village.
Museums and Historical Sites
When visiting a castle or a shrine, the explanatory plaques often mention the 'shison' of the lord who built the structure. This helps visitors understand the continuity of the lineage to the present day.
Political and Environmental Speeches
Politicians often use 'shison' when discussing national debt or environmental policy. They might say, 'Shison ni fuzai o nokoshite wa naranai' (We must not leave debt to our descendants), appealing to the listener's sense of duty toward future generations.

絶滅危惧種が子孫を増やすためのプログラムが進行中だ。
(A program is underway for endangered species to increase their offspring.)

In anime and manga, 'shison' is a staple in the fantasy and historical genres. You might hear a villain threaten to 'wip out all the shison' of a hero, or a hero discovering they are the 'shison' of a legendary warrior. These contexts play on the word's inherent drama and its connection to bloodlines and destiny. For example, in 'Naruto' or 'One Piece,' the concept of inherited will and lineage is often expressed through the idea of being a 'shison' of a great figure.

この伝統は、子孫によって守り続けられてきた。
(This tradition has been kept alive by descendants.)

Finally, you will hear this word during traditional Japanese ceremonies, such as funerals or Obon festivals. During these times, people reflect on their 'sosen' (ancestors) and pray for the health and prosperity of their 'shison.' It is a word that anchors the speaker in the flow of time, acknowledging those who came before and those who will come after. Even in modern, fast-paced Japan, the concept of 'shison' remains a vital part of the social and spiritual fabric.

While 子孫 (shison) is a relatively straightforward word, learners often make mistakes regarding its register, its confusion with similar-sounding words, and its distinction from more specific family terms. Because it is a formal word, using it in the wrong context can make you sound overly dramatic or stiff.

Mistake 1: Using 'Shison' for Your Own Children
If a friend asks, 'Do you have kids?', you should never answer 'Shison ga imasu.' This sounds like you are a king talking about your royal lineage. Instead, use 'Kodomo ga imasu.' 'Shison' is for the collective line, not the specific individuals in your house.
Mistake 2: Confusing 'Shison' with 'Sosen'
Because they both start with 's' sounds and relate to family lines, beginners often swap 'shison' (descendants) with 'sosen' (祖先 - ancestors). Remember: 'Shi' (子) means child, so 'shison' must be the ones coming *after* you.
Mistake 3: Overusing it in Casual Conversation
Avoid saying things like 'I want to go to the park with my shison.' It sounds bizarre. Use 'shison' only when discussing the concept of lineage, future generations, or biological reproduction.

❌ 私の子孫は小学生です。
✅ 私の子供は小学生です。
(Correct: My child is an elementary school student. Incorrect: My descendant is an elementary school student.)

Another common error is failing to distinguish 'shison' from 'matsuei' (末裔). While both mean descendant, 'matsuei' is even more formal and often used for the very last remnants of a famous or noble line. If you are talking about general future generations, 'shison' is the correct choice. If you are talking about the last living relative of a 12th-century emperor, 'matsuei' might be more appropriate.

子孫にお墓参りに行きました。
祖先にお墓参りに行きました。
(Correct: I went to visit my ancestors' graves. Incorrect: I went to visit my descendants' graves.)

Lastly, be careful with the word 'kodomo' (子供). While 'shison' includes children, 'kodomo' is the word for the specific young people in front of you. 'Shison' is an abstract, collective concept. You 'raise' (sodateru) children, but you 'prosper' (han'ei saseru) your descendants. By keeping these distinctions in mind, you will avoid the awkwardness of misusing a high-register word in everyday life.

In Japanese, there are several words that overlap with 子孫 (shison), each with its own nuance and level of formality. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about family, biology, history, or the future of society.

末裔 (Matsuei) - Last of the Line
'Matsuei' specifically refers to the descendants of a distant, often famous, ancestor. It has a slightly more poetic or grand feel than 'shison.' It is often used when a lineage is thin or nearly extinct. Example: 'Kare wa Heike no matsuei da' (He is a descendant of the Heike clan).
後世 (Kousei) - Future Generations
'Kousei' refers to people who come after us in time, not necessarily our biological relatives. It is often used in the context of leaving a legacy or a work of art. Example: 'Kono sakuhin o kousei ni tsutaeru' (To pass this work on to future generations).
子供 (Kodomo) - Children
The most common word for 'children.' It is used for immediate offspring and is neutral in register. Use this for daily conversation.

この技術は後世に役立つだろう。
(This technology will likely be useful to future generations.)

Other related terms include 跡継ぎ (atotsugi) and 後継者 (koukeisha). While 'shison' is about blood lineage, 'atotsugi' and 'koukeisha' are about who will take over a business, a role, or a title. A 'koukeisha' doesn't necessarily have to be a 'shison,' although in traditional Japanese businesses, they often were the same person. For example, 'Kare wa kono mise no atotsugi desu' (He is the successor to this shop).

彼は偉大な芸術家の末裔としての誇りを持っている。
(He takes pride in being a descendant of a great artist.)

When choosing between these words, consider the 'scope' and 'blood.' If you mean 'everyone in the year 2100,' use 'kousei' or 'mirai no hitobito.' If you mean 'the great-grandchildren of Tanaka-san,' use 'shison.' If you mean 'the person who will run the company next,' use 'koukeisha.' By understanding these nuances, you can speak more precisely and sound more like a native speaker who understands the subtle textures of the Japanese language.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

In ancient Japan, having many 'shison' was the primary indicator of a successful life, as it ensured that the 'Ie' (household) would survive and the ancestors would be cared for in the afterlife.

Guía de pronunciación

UK ʃisõɴ
US ʃisõɴ
Japanese is a pitch-accent language. 'Shison' typically has a Low-High-High pitch pattern (Heiban style).
Rima con
遺言 (yuigon) 基本 (kihon) 日本 (nippon) 標本 (hyouhon) 資本 (shihon) 脚本 (kyakuhon) 異本 (ihon) 孤本 (kohon)
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing 'son' like the English 'sun'. It should be 'so' as in 'soft'.
  • Making the 'n' too strong like an English 'n'.
  • Confusing the pitch with 'shisou' (thought/ideology).
  • Confusing with 'shisen' (gaze).
  • Misreading the kanji '孫' as '係' (kakari).

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

The kanji are basic (JLPT N4/N3 level), but the concept and compounds are more advanced.

Escritura 4/5

The kanji '孫' can be tricky to write correctly without practice.

Expresión oral 2/5

Pronunciation is simple, but knowing when to use it instead of 'kodomo' requires care.

Escucha 3/5

Easily confused with 'sosen' or 'shisou' if not listening carefully.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

子供 (kodomo) 孫 (mago) 家族 (kazoku) 歴史 (rekishi) 未来 (mirai)

Aprende después

祖先 (sosen) 家系 (kakei) 繁栄 (han'ei) 継承 (keishou) 遺産 (isan)

Avanzado

末裔 (matsuei) 後嗣 (koushi) 血脈 (ketsumyaku) 系譜 (keifu) 裔 (ei)

Gramática que debes saber

Noun + のために (For the sake of...)

子孫のために木を植える。

Passive Voice (Inherited by...)

この家は子孫に受け継がれた。

Compound Nouns (Shison + Noun)

子孫繁栄は大切な願いだ。

Relative Clauses modifying 'Shison'

未来を生きる子孫たち。

Causative Form (To make descendants prosper)

子孫を繁栄させる。

Ejemplos por nivel

1

この動物は子孫を残します。

This animal leaves descendants.

Simple subject-object-verb structure.

2

子孫は「子供の子供」という意味です。

Shison means 'child's child'.

Using 'to iu imi desu' to define a word.

3

彼は有名な人の子孫です。

He is a descendant of a famous person.

Standard 'A wa B no C desu' pattern.

4

子孫が生まれるのは嬉しいことです。

It is a happy thing for descendants to be born.

Using 'no wa' to make a clause the subject.

5

花は種を作って子孫を増やします。

Flowers make seeds and increase their offspring.

Connecting two actions with the 'te' form.

6

子孫のために木を植えましょう。

Let's plant trees for our descendants.

Using 'no tame ni' for purpose.

7

私の家系にはたくさんの子孫がいます。

There are many descendants in my family line.

Using 'ni wa' for location/context.

8

子孫という言葉を覚えました。

I learned the word 'shison'.

Simple past tense verb.

1

絶滅危惧種は子孫を残すのが難しいです。

Endangered species have difficulty leaving offspring.

Using 'no ga muzukashii' to describe difficulty.

2

その王様には多くの子孫がいました。

That king had many descendants.

Past tense of 'iru' for existence.

3

子孫代々、この土地を守ってきました。

We have protected this land for generations of descendants.

Using 'daidai' as an adverbial phrase.

4

将来の子孫にきれいな海を残したいです。

I want to leave a clean sea for future descendants.

Using 'tai' for desire.

5

彼は、自分がある武士の子孫だと知りました。

He found out that he is a descendant of a certain samurai.

Using 'to shirimashita' for discovery.

6

子孫たちは、おじいさんの話をよく聞きます。

The descendants listen well to their grandfather's stories.

Pluralizing with '-tachi'.

7

この伝統は子孫に伝えられるべきです。

This tradition should be passed on to descendants.

Passive voice 'tsutaerareru' + 'beki' (should).

8

科学者は、その鳥の子孫を調査しています。

Scientists are investigating the descendants of that bird.

Present progressive 'shite imasu'.

1

私たちは子孫に負の遺産を残してはならない。

We must not leave a negative legacy to our descendants.

Using 'te wa naranai' for strong prohibition.

2

この寺は、ある貴族の子孫によって建てられました。

This temple was built by the descendants of a certain noble.

Passive voice with agent 'ni yotte'.

3

彼は家系図を調べて、自分が誰の子孫かを確認した。

He checked the family tree and confirmed whose descendant he is.

Embedded question with 'ka'.

4

子孫が繁栄することを願って、お守りを買いました。

I bought a charm, wishing for the prosperity of my descendants.

Using 'koto o negatte' (wishing that...).

5

地球温暖化は、私たちの子孫に大きな影響を与えるだろう。

Global warming will likely have a major impact on our descendants.

Using 'darou' for conjecture.

6

その歴史的な人物の子孫は、今でもこの町に住んでいる。

The descendants of that historical figure still live in this town today.

Using 'ima demo' for continuity.

7

生物の主な目的は、子孫を次世代に繋ぐことだ。

The main purpose of living things is to link offspring to the next generation.

Using 'koto da' for definition/essence.

8

子孫に誇れるような生き方をしたい。

I want to live in a way that my descendants can be proud of.

Relative clause 'shison ni kotoeru you na'.

1

徳川家康の子孫は、現代でも多方面で活躍している。

Descendants of Tokugawa Ieyasu are active in many fields even today.

Using 'tahoumen de' (in various fields).

2

私たちは、子孫の代まで平和が続くように努力すべきだ。

We should strive so that peace continues until the generations of our descendants.

Using 'you ni' for purpose/objective.

3

その一族は、子孫が絶えることなく数百年続いてきた。

That clan has continued for hundreds of years without their descendants dying out.

Using 'koto naku' (without doing...).

4

この法律は、子孫への財産分与について定めている。

This law stipulates the distribution of assets to descendants.

Using 'ni tsuite sadamete iru' (stipulates about...).

5

環境破壊は、将来の子孫から生存の権利を奪う行為だ。

Environmental destruction is an act that robs future descendants of their right to survive.

Using 'o ubau koui' (an act of robbing...).

6

彼は、自分が誇り高き王族の子孫であることを証明した。

He proved that he is a descendant of a proud royal family.

Using 'de aru koto o shoumei shita'.

7

子孫に美田を残さずという格言がある。

There is a proverb that says 'do not leave fertile rice fields to your descendants' (meaning don't spoil them).

Quoting a proverb with 'to iu kakugen'.

8

この物語は、呪われた子孫たちが運命に立ち向かう話だ。

This story is about cursed descendants facing their destiny.

Relative clause 'norowareta shison-tachi'.

1

遺伝子解析により、彼らが古代文明の直系の子孫であることが判明した。

Genetic analysis revealed that they are direct descendants of an ancient civilization.

Using 'ni yori' (due to/by means of) and 'hanmei shita' (was revealed).

2

我々には、この文化遺産を無傷のまま子孫に継承する義務がある。

We have an obligation to pass this cultural heritage to our descendants intact.

Using 'mukizu no mama' (intact) and 'keishou suru gimu' (obligation to inherit/pass on).

3

子孫繁栄を象徴する文様が、この着物には施されている。

Patterns symbolizing the prosperity of descendants are applied to this kimono.

Using 'o shouchou suru' (symbolizing) and 'hodokosarete iru' (is applied/decorated).

4

莫大な公的債務は、将来の子孫に重い負担を強いることになる。

The enormous public debt will end up imposing a heavy burden on future descendants.

Using 'o shiiru koto ni naru' (will result in imposing...).

5

進化論の観点から言えば、すべての現生人類は共通の子孫である。

From the perspective of evolutionary theory, all modern humans are common descendants.

Using 'kanten kara ieba' (speaking from the perspective of...).

6

彼は、自らの思想が子孫によって誤解されることを恐れていた。

He feared that his thoughts would be misunderstood by his descendants.

Passive potential/honorific context or standard passive 'gokai sareru'.

7

この土地の所有権は、子孫代々にわたって継承されるべき強固なものだ。

The ownership of this land is something strong that should be inherited across generations of descendants.

Using 'ni watatte' (spanning across).

8

子孫への愛情が、過酷な環境での生存を可能にする原動力となる。

Affection for one's offspring becomes the driving force that enables survival in harsh environments.

Using 'gendouryoku to naru' (becomes the driving force).

1

悠久の時を経て、その伝説は子孫たちの間で神話へと昇華していった。

Over eternal time, that legend was sublimated into myth among the descendants.

Using 'yuukyuu no toki o hete' (through eternal time) and 'shouka shite itta' (sublimated).

2

我々の現在の選択が、数世紀後の子孫の生存環境を決定づけるという自覚が必要だ。

We need the awareness that our current choices determine the living environment of descendants centuries from now.

Using 'ketteizukeru' (to determine/finalize) and 'jikaku' (awareness).

3

その一族の凋落は、子孫たちの精神的な脆弱性に起因していたと言わざるを得ない。

One cannot help but say that the decline of that clan was caused by the spiritual fragility of its descendants.

Using 'ni kiin shite ita' (was caused by) and 'iwazaru o enai' (cannot help but say).

4

血脈という目に見えない糸が、遠く離れた子孫たちを宿命的に結びつけている。

The invisible thread called bloodline fatefully connects distant descendants.

Using 'ketsumyaku' (bloodline) and 'shukumeiteki ni' (fatefully).

5

子孫を残すという生物学的本能を超越した、文化的な継承の意義を問う。

We question the significance of cultural inheritance that transcends the biological instinct to leave offspring.

Using 'o chouetsu shita' (transcending).

6

この壮大な叙事詩は、英雄の子孫たちが辿る数奇な運命を描き出している。

This grand epic depicts the checkered fates followed by the descendants of the hero.

Using 'suuki na unmei' (checkered/strange fate) and 'egakidashite iru' (depicting).

7

核廃棄物の処理問題は、数万年後の子孫に対する倫理的な挑戦である。

The problem of nuclear waste disposal is an ethical challenge to descendants tens of thousands of years in the future.

Using 'rinriteki na chousen' (ethical challenge).

8

子孫に何を託すべきかという問いは、我々がいかに生きるべきかという問いと同義である。

The question of what we should entrust to our descendants is synonymous with the question of how we should live.

Using 'dougi de aru' (is synonymous).

Colocaciones comunes

子孫を残す
子孫が絶える
子孫に伝える
直系の子孫
子孫の繁栄
遠い子孫
共通の子孫
負の遺産を子孫に残す
子孫代々
子孫を増やす

Frases Comunes

子孫繁栄

— The prosperity and increase of one's descendants. Often used in New Year's wishes.

子孫繁栄を願って門松を飾る。

子孫を絶やす

— To let the lineage die out. Considered a great misfortune in traditional Japan.

家系を重んじ、子孫を絶やさないようにした。

子孫に恥じない

— To live in a way that one's descendants won't be ashamed of.

子孫に恥じない生き方を貫く。

子孫を養う

— To support and raise one's offspring.

懸命に働いて子孫を養う。

子孫の教育

— The education of future generations.

子孫の教育は国家の基盤だ。

子孫を導く

— To lead or guide one's descendants.

先祖の知恵が子孫を導く。

子孫への贈り物

— A gift (metaphorical or physical) for future generations.

平和こそが子孫への最高の贈り物だ。

子孫の代まで

— Continuing until the generation of the descendants.

この呪いは子孫の代まで続く。

子孫の顔を見る

— To see the faces of one's descendants (often implying living long enough to see grandchildren).

子孫の顔を見るまで死ねない。

子孫を誇る

— To be proud of one's descendants.

彼は立派に育った子孫を誇っている。

Se confunde a menudo con

子孫 vs 祖先 (sosen)

The exact opposite. Sosen = Ancestors (past); Shison = Descendants (future).

子孫 vs 子供 (kodomo)

Kodomo is specific to children; Shison is the entire line of descendants.

子孫 vs 思想 (shisou)

Sounds similar but means 'thought' or 'ideology.' Context is usually very different.

Modismos y expresiones

"子孫に美田を残さず"

— Do not leave fertile rice fields to your descendants. It means parents shouldn't leave too much wealth, as it makes children lazy.

西郷隆盛は「子孫に美田を残さず」という言葉を遺した。

Literary/Proverb
"子孫は宝"

— Descendants are treasures. Emphasizes the value of children for the future.

昔から子孫は宝と言われてきた。

Common
"子孫の末まで"

— To the very last of the descendants. Usually refers to a long-lasting effect.

その恩恵は子孫の末まで及んだ。

Formal
"子孫万代"

— Descendants for ten thousand generations. Means forever/perpetuity.

子孫万代の繁栄を祈る。

Extremely Formal
"子孫に禍根を残す"

— To leave the root of a calamity for one's descendants. To leave a problem for the future.

中途半端な解決は子孫に禍根を残す。

Formal
"子孫のために道を切り拓く"

— To pave the way for one's descendants.

先駆者は子孫のために道を切り拓いた。

Inspirational
"子孫への遺言"

— A final message or will left for descendants.

彼は子孫への遺言としてこの手紙を書いた。

Formal
"子孫の繁栄は先祖の徳"

— The prosperity of descendants is due to the virtues of the ancestors.

子孫の繁栄は先祖の徳のおかげだと信じられている。

Traditional
"子孫の代で潰す"

— To ruin (a family business/fortune) in the generation of the descendants.

三代目の子孫の代で会社を潰してしまった。

Critical
"子孫に名を残す"

— To leave one's name/fame for one's descendants.

彼は偉業を成し遂げ、子孫に名を残した。

Formal

Fácil de confundir

子孫 vs 末裔 (matsuei)

Both mean descendant.

Matsuei is more formal and often refers to the descendants of a very distant, illustrious person, or the final survivors of a line.

彼は貴族の末裔だ。

子孫 vs 跡継ぎ (atotsugi)

Both relate to who comes next in a family.

Atotsugi is the specific person who inherits the family business or house. Shison is the biological descendant.

息子が私の跡継ぎです。

子孫 vs 後世 (kousei)

Both refer to people in the future.

Kousei is 'posterity' or 'future generations' in general (everyone). Shison is specifically 'descendants' of a person/group.

名を後世に残す。

子孫 vs 子弟 (shitei)

Both involve the younger generation.

Shitei refers to 'younger people' or 'sons and brothers' in an educational or social group context.

良家の子弟が集まる学校。

子孫 vs 後継者 (koukeisha)

Both mean someone who follows.

Koukeisha is a 'successor' in a role, job, or office, regardless of blood relation.

彼は私の後継者として相応しい。

Patrones de oraciones

A2

[Ancestor] の子孫です。

私は武士の子孫です。

B1

子孫のために [Action]。

子孫のために環境を守ります。

B1

子孫を残す。

動物は子孫を残そうとします。

B2

子孫が絶える。

戦争で子孫が絶えてしまった。

B2

子孫代々 [Verb]。

子孫代々この家を守る。

C1

子孫繁栄を祈る。

一族の長は子孫繁栄を祈った。

C1

直系の子孫。

彼はその王の直系の子孫だ。

C2

子孫に禍根を残す。

この決断は子孫に禍根を残すだろう。

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

子 (child)
孫 (grandchild)
曾孫 (great-grandchild)
玄孫 (great-great-grandchild)

Verbos

子孫を残す (to leave descendants)
子孫を増やす (to increase offspring)

Adjetivos

子孫繁栄の (prosperous for descendants)

Relacionado

家系 (family line)
血統 (lineage/bloodline)
祖先 (ancestor)
末裔 (descendant/remnant)
後世 (posterity)

Cómo usarlo

frequency

High in formal, academic, and historical contexts; Low in casual daily conversation.

Errores comunes
  • Saying 'shison' for your own small children. 子供 (kodomo)

    Shison is too formal and abstract for individual children in a casual setting.

  • Confusing 'shison' with 'sosen'. 祖先 (sosen)

    Shison is the future; Sosen is the past. Don't mix them up!

  • Using 'shison' when you mean 'successor' (job). 後継者 (koukeisha)

    Shison is about blood lineage. A successor to a job doesn't have to be a relative.

  • Misreading 孫 as 係. 孫 (shison)

    The kanji look similar, but 孫 has the child radical (子).

  • Using 'shison' for 'all people in the future' in a casual way. 未来の人たち (mirai no hitotachi)

    Shison implies a biological link. Use 'mirai no hitotachi' for a general sense.

Consejos

Context Matters

Always use 'shison' when the topic is history, biology, or long-term legacy. For daily life, stick to 'kodomo'.

Common Verb

Memorize the phrase 'shison o nokosu' (leave descendants). It's the most common way to use this word.

Ceremonial Use

You'll see 'shison' on charms or at shrines. It's a key word for understanding Japanese family values.

Kanji Recognition

The kanji 孫 (mago/son) is the key. Once you see it, think 'generations'.

Avoid Drama

Don't say 'my shison' when talking to your neighbors about school; it sounds like you think you're royalty.

The 'S' Sound

In news broadcasts, 'shison' is often preceded by 'watashitachi no' (our) to talk about the future.

Essay Hack

In essays about the environment, using 'shison' makes your argument sound more professional and serious.

Family Tree

Picture a family tree. The roots are 'sosen,' and the branches/leaves are 'shison'.

Formal vs. Informal

Remember: Shison = Posterity. Kodomo = Kids. Choose based on how serious the situation is.

Compound Power

Learning 'shison han'ei' gives you a great phrase to use in formal New Year's greetings.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of **SHI** (She) having a **SON**. 'She-Son' = Shison. She has a son, and he has a son, creating a line of descendants.

Asociación visual

Visualize a long, golden thread connecting an old man in a kimono to a baby in a futuristic space suit. This thread is the 'shison' line.

Word Web

Family Future DNA Inheritance History Children Grandchildren Legacy

Desafío

Try to write three things you want to leave for your 'shison' using the phrase 'shison no tame ni...' (e.g., peace, knowledge, a clean planet).

Origen de la palabra

The word 'shison' comes from Middle Chinese roots (Sino-Japanese 'kango'). The character '子' (shi/ko) originally depicted a baby in swaddling clothes. The character '孫' (son/mago) consists of '子' (child) and '系' (lineage/thread), symbolizing a child who continues the thread of the family.

Significado original: Children and grandchildren, specifically those who continue the ancestral line.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Contexto cultural

Be sensitive when discussing 'shison' with people who cannot or choose not to have children, as the term traditionally implies a biological imperative.

In English, 'descendants' sounds slightly more clinical or legal than 'shison,' which carries a warmer, more duty-bound familial connotation in Japanese.

The 'Tokugawa Shogunate' lineage is a frequent topic of 'shison' research. The 'Genji' and 'Heike' clans' descendants are legendary in Japanese folklore. Manga like 'JoJo's Bizarre Adventure' center entirely on the 'shison' of the Joestar line.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

History Class

  • 歴史的人物の子孫
  • 家系図をたどる
  • 武士の末裔
  • 直系の血筋

Environmental Activism

  • 子孫に地球を残す
  • 将来の世代
  • 持続可能な社会
  • 負の遺産

Biology / Science

  • 子孫を残す本能
  • 種の保存
  • 遺伝的特徴
  • 共通の祖先

New Year / Ceremonies

  • 子孫繁栄を願う
  • 家族の健康
  • 代々続く
  • 先祖供養

Legal / Inheritance

  • 正当な子孫
  • 財産の継承
  • 遺言の執行
  • 血縁関係

Inicios de conversación

"あなたは自分の祖先や子孫について考えたことがありますか? (Have you ever thought about your ancestors or descendants?)"

"有名な人の子孫に会ったことがありますか? (Have you ever met a descendant of a famous person?)"

"子孫にどのような世界を残したいですか? (What kind of world do you want to leave for your descendants?)"

"日本の「子孫繁栄」という考え方についてどう思いますか? (What do you think about the Japanese concept of 'shison han'ei'?)"

"自分の家系図を子孫のために作ったことがありますか? (Have you ever made a family tree for your descendants?)"

Temas para diario

100年後の私の子孫に手紙を書いてみよう。 (Write a letter to your descendants 100 years from now.)

今の社会が子孫に残している「負の遺産」について考えてください。 (Think about the 'negative legacy' current society is leaving for descendants.)

あなたが先祖から受け継ぎ、子孫に伝えたい価値観は何ですか? (What values did you inherit from your ancestors that you want to pass to your descendants?)

「子孫に美田を残さず」という言葉について、自分の意見を書きなさい。 (Write your opinion on the proverb 'Do not leave fertile rice fields to your descendants.')

もし自分が歴史的な人物の子孫だったら、どう感じますか? (How would you feel if you were a descendant of a historical figure?)

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Technically yes, but it sounds very strange and overly formal. Use 'kodomo' in normal conversation. Use 'shison' only if you are talking about your family lineage in a very grand or historical way.

'Shison' is the general term for descendants. 'Matsuei' is more poetic and often implies the descendants of a famous historical figure or a lineage that is nearly gone.

Like most Japanese nouns, it can be both. Context determines if you mean one descendant or all of them. You can add '-tachi' to make it explicitly plural and more personal.

You can use 'shison' if you mean your family's future, or 'kousei' (後世) if you mean the people of the future in general.

It is a four-character idiom (yojijukugo) meaning the prosperity and thriving of one's descendants. It's a common wish for families.

Yes, it is the standard term in biology for the offspring of animals and plants when discussing the continuation of a species.

The primary antonym is '祖先' (sosen), meaning ancestors.

Yes, it can refer to the 'descendants' of an idea, a style, or a movement, though this is quite literary.

It is a very common 'B1 level' word, meaning you will see it in newspapers and hear it on TV, even if you don't use it every day.

It is 子 (child) and 孫 (grandchild). Be careful with 孫; it has a 'child' radical on the left and a 'thread/lineage' component on the right.

Ponte a prueba 180 preguntas

writing

Write a sentence using 'shison' to talk about the environment.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'He is a descendant of a samurai.'

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Explain 'shison' in simple Japanese.

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writing

Write the kanji for 'shison' three times.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'shison o nokosu' in a sentence about animals.

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writing

Write a New Year's wish using 'shison han'ei'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'We must not leave debt to our descendants.'

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writing

Describe a historical figure and their 'shison'.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'shison-tachi'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'This tradition is passed down to descendants.'

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'shison' in a sentence about a family tree.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write a sentence about endangered species and 'shison'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Translate: 'I want to be a person my descendants can be proud of.'

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Use 'shison daidai' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a sentence using 'shison' and 'sosen'.

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writing

Translate: 'The king had many descendants.'

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writing

Use 'shison' in a formal speech context.

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writing

Translate: 'Is he a direct descendant?'

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writing

Write a short paragraph about your legacy for 'shison'.

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writing

Use 'shison' in a sentence about science/genetics.

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speaking

Say 'descendant' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'for the sake of descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'to leave offspring'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'prosperity of descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'direct descendant'.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say 'generation after generation of descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'descendants are treasures'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'don't leave debt to descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'descendants of a samurai'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'to honor ancestors and descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'I am a descendant of [Name]'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'future descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'the lineage has run out of descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'to pass down to descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'common descendant'.

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'praying for descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'noble descendant'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'last descendant (matsuei)'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'to raise descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
speaking

Say 'legacy for descendants'.

Read this aloud:

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Shison' or 'Sosen'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen and identify: 'Shison' or 'Shisou'?

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What is the speaker praying for? (Audio: Shison han'ei)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Who is the man a descendant of? (Audio: Kare wa bushi no shison desu)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What should we leave for shison? (Audio: Kirei na umi o nokoshimashou)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Is the lineage continuing? (Audio: Shison ga taete shimatta)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What do animals do? (Audio: Shison o nokosu tame ni tatakau)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Whose descendant is he? (Audio: Chokkei no shison desu)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What is 'shison daidai'? (Audio: Shison daidai no tochi)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Is 'shison' a treasure? (Audio: Shison wa takara da)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What is the negative legacy? (Audio: Shakkin wa fu no isan da)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Who is the woman? (Audio: Kanojo wa kizoku no matsuei da)

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen for the particle: 'Shison [?] nokosu'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

Listen for the particle: 'Shison [?] tsutaeru'.

¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
listening

What is the topic? (Audio: Shison no kyouiku ni tsuite)

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¡Correcto! No del todo. Respuesta correcta:
writing

Write 'Descendants are the future' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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