This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

Home
Learn
Hindi
Vocabulary
कुटुंबजन

A2 noun #7,000 most common 9 min read

कुटुंबजन

kutumbjan Top 7,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips कुटुंबजन in 30 Seconds

Explanation कुटुंबजन in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should recognize that 'कुटुंबजन' (Kutumbjan) means 'family.' Even though it is a bit formal, you might see it on greeting cards or invitations. Think of it as a fancy way to say 'my relatives.' At this stage, just remember that it refers to more than one person. If you see a picture of a big Indian family at a wedding, that group is the 'Kutumbjan.' You don't need to use it in daily speech yet, but knowing it helps you understand formal announcements. It is made of two parts: 'Kutumb' (family) and 'Jan' (people). So, 'family-people.'

At the A2 level, you can start using 'कुटुंबजन' in specific contexts like describing a festival or a wedding. You should know that it is a plural masculine noun. This means you must use plural verbs like 'हैं' (are) or 'आए' (came). For example: 'मेरे कुटुंबजन यहाँ हैं' (My family folk are here). You should be able to distinguish it from the simpler word 'परिवार' (Parivaar). While 'Parivaar' is your immediate family, 'Kutumbjan' includes your uncles, aunts, and cousins who have come together for an event. It's a great word to use to show you understand Hindi social structures.

At the B1 level, you should understand the cultural weight of 'कुटुंबजन.' It implies a sense of collective responsibility. You might use it in a short essay about Indian traditions. You should be comfortable using it with postpositions, like 'कुटुंबजन के साथ' (with the family folk). You will also start to notice this word in Hindi news stories or short stories by famous authors. You should understand that it is used to show respect to the family as a whole. It’s not just a list of people; it’s a single unit of identity. You can use it to talk about family decisions or gatherings during holidays like Holi or Diwali.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use 'कुटुंबजन' in formal writing and understand its nuances in literature. You should recognize that it belongs to a higher 'register' of Hindi (Sanskritized Hindi). You can compare it with synonyms like 'खानदान' (Khandaan) or 'कुनबा' (Kunba) and explain why you chose one over the other. For instance, you would use 'Kutumbjan' in a formal speech at a family function. You should also be aware of the 'oblique' case rules, though 'Kutumbjan' often stays the same. You can discuss complex topics like 'the role of कुटुंबजन in modern urban society' and use the word fluently in that context.

At the C1 level, you should have a deep appreciation for the etymological roots of 'कुटुंबजन.' You can use it to discuss the philosophical concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (The world is one family) in depth. You understand its legal and traditional implications, such as in matters of 'Kutumb' property or ancestral rites. Your usage should be precise, using the word to evoke a specific sense of tradition or formal collective identity that 'Parivaar' cannot capture. You can analyze how authors use this word to establish the social standing or the traditional values of a character's background. You should also be able to use it in high-level academic or journalistic writing without hesitation.

At the C2 level, you have mastered the word 'कुटुंबजन' in all its dimensions. You can use it with subtle irony, poetic flourish, or clinical precision. You understand how the word has evolved over centuries and its relationship with Vedic Sanskrit. You can lead a discussion on the changing definitions of 'Kutumb' in the 21st century and how the term 'Kutumbjan' is being adapted to include non-traditional family structures in modern literature. You are comfortable with the most complex grammatical constructions involving this word and can effortlessly switch between different registers of Hindi, knowing exactly when 'Kutumbjan' provides the perfect cultural and emotional resonance.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

कुटुंबजन in 30 Seconds

A formal Hindi term for 'family folk' or the collective members of an extended family group.
Derived from Sanskrit roots, it is used primarily in traditional, formal, or religious contexts in India.
It functions as a plural masculine noun, requiring plural verb agreement in Hindi sentences.
Culturally, it represents the collective identity and mutual support system of the Indian kinship structure.

The Hindi word कुटुंबजन (Kutumbjan) is a beautiful, evocative term that goes far beyond the simple English word 'family.' At its core, it is a compound noun derived from the Sanskrit roots 'Kutumb' (household/family) and 'Jan' (people/folk). When you use this word, you aren't just talking about your parents or siblings; you are invoking the entire ecosystem of your extended family—the aunts, uncles, cousins, and elders who form the fabric of your ancestral lineage. In the landscape of Indian sociology, the 'Kutumb' represents a collective identity where individual interests are often secondary to the welfare of the group. Therefore, 'Kutumbjan' refers to the members of this collective unit.

Etymological Nuance: The suffix '-jan' is frequently added to nouns in Hindi to pluralize them with a sense of respect or to denote a specific class of people, such as 'Bhakta-jan' (devotees) or 'Guru-jan' (respected teachers). Thus, Kutumbjan translates most accurately to 'the family folk' or 'the kinsmen.'

You will most frequently encounter this word in contexts that are semi-formal or deeply traditional. While a modern city-dweller might use the word 'family' (परिवार - Parivaar) in daily conversation, they will switch to 'Kutumbjan' when writing a wedding invitation, performing a religious ceremony (Puja), or discussing ancestral property. It carries a weight of tradition and duty. In rural India, where the joint family system is still a lived reality for many, this word is a staple of daily life, describing the group of people who share a kitchen, a courtyard, and a common history.

विवाह के शुभ अवसर पर सभी कुटुंबजन एकत्रित हुए। (On the auspicious occasion of the wedding, all the family folk gathered.)

Understanding 'Kutumbjan' also requires understanding the Indian concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'—the idea that the whole world is one family. This cultural backdrop gives the word a spiritual dimension. It implies a sense of belonging and mutual responsibility. If someone is part of your 'Kutumbjan,' you are bound to them by blood and by 'Dharma' (duty). It is rarely used for friends, no matter how close they are; it is strictly reserved for those within the kinship structure. In a world that is becoming increasingly individualistic, using the word 'Kutumbjan' serves as a linguistic anchor to one's roots and the collective strength of the family unit.

Using कुटुंबजन correctly requires a basic understanding of Hindi noun-verb agreement. Since 'Jan' (people) is inherently plural, 'Kutumbjan' is always treated as a plural masculine noun. This means your verbs and adjectives must reflect this plurality. For example, you would say 'कुटुंबजन आए हैं' (The family folk have arrived) rather than 'आया है' (has arrived). The word functions as a collective noun but focuses on the individuals within that collective.

Postpositional Changes: When followed by postpositions like 'ने' (ne), 'को' (ko), or 'से' (se), the word remains 'कुटुंबजन' in most standard Hindi dialects, though in very formal Sanskritized Hindi, you might occasionally see 'कुटुंबजनों' (Kutumbjanon) to emphasize the oblique plural form. However, 'कुटुंबजन' is widely accepted as the standard form for both subject and object cases.

Consider the social hierarchy often embedded in the use of this word. When a speaker refers to their 'Kutumbjan,' they are often acknowledging the presence or the opinion of their elders. It is common to see sentences where the 'Kutumbjan' are the decision-makers. For instance, 'कुटुंबजन की सलाह के बिना मैं यह निर्णय नहीं ले सकता' (I cannot take this decision without the advice of the family folk). Here, the word highlights the consultative nature of traditional Indian families.

हमारे कुटुंबजन वर्षों से इसी गाँव में रह रहे हैं। (Our family folk have been living in this village for years.)

In terms of sentence placement, 'Kutumbjan' usually occupies the subject or object position. It is rarely used as an adjective. It is also important to note that while 'Parivaar' (family) can be used for a small nuclear unit, 'Kutumbjan' almost always implies a larger group. If you are talking about just your wife and children, 'Kutumbjan' would sound overly grandiose and slightly out of place. Use it when the context involves the wider circle of kinship—the 'clan' or the 'extended household.'

While 'कुटुंबजन' might not be the first word you hear in a Bollywood item song, it is omnipresent in other spheres of Indian life. One of the most common places to see this word is on Lagna-Patrika (wedding invitations). The invitations often conclude with a line like 'दर्शनाभिलाषी: समस्त कुटुंबजन' (Awaiting your visit: The entire family folk). This usage signals that the entire clan is hosting the guest, not just the bride or groom's parents.

Religious and Ritualistic Contexts: During 'Shradh' (ancestral rites) or 'Satyanarayan Puja,' the priest will often ask the 'Yajman' (the person performing the ritual) to involve all the 'Kutumbjan.' In this context, the word takes on a sacred tone, referring to the living members who carry forward the lineage of the ancestors.

In literature and news, especially in Hindi newspapers like 'Dainik Jagran' or 'Amar Ujala,' you will see 'Kutumbjan' used in reports about family disputes, large gatherings, or community achievements. For example, a headline might read 'कुटुंबजन ने मिलकर मनाया सौंवा जन्मदिन' (Family folk gathered to celebrate the 100th birthday). It lends a sense of dignity and communal harmony to the reporting. Similarly, in classic Hindi literature (like the works of Munshi Premchand), the word is used to describe the intricate web of relationships in a rural 'Kunba' or household.

दीवाली के दिन सभी कुटुंबजन नए कपड़े पहनकर पूजा करते हैं। (On Diwali, all the family folk wear new clothes and perform the prayer.)

You will also hear this word in formal speeches, particularly by politicians or community leaders who wish to emphasize their connection to their 'extended family'—which sometimes metaphorically extends to their entire constituency. However, in its literal sense, it remains the go-to word for describing the collective presence of relatives at significant life events like births, deaths, and marriages. If you are watching a high-drama Hindi soap opera, a matriarch might lament about the 'izzat' (honor) of the 'Kutumbjan,' reinforcing the idea that the actions of one member affect the reputation of all.

One of the most frequent errors learners make is using कुटुंबजन to refer to a single person. Because the word ends in '-jan' (people), it is inherently a collective/plural term. You cannot say 'वह मेरा कुटुंबजन है' (He is my family folk) in the same way you would say 'वह मेरा रिश्तेदार है' (He is my relative). To refer to an individual, you must use words like 'Parivaar ka sadasya' (family member) or 'Rishtedaar' (relative).

Confusing Register: Another mistake is using 'Kutumbjan' in a very casual, slang-heavy conversation. It sounds slightly archaic or overly formal if you're just telling a friend you're going to see a movie with your family. In that case, 'Ghar waale' (house folks) or 'Family' (the English loanword is very common) would be more appropriate. Using 'Kutumbjan' at a nightclub, for instance, would sound unintentionally hilarious.

Spelling and pronunciation also trip up beginners. The 'u' sounds in 'Kutumb' are short (like 'put'), and the 'm' is a half-nasal sound often represented by a dot (Anusvara) over the 'tu.' Some learners mispronounce it as 'Kootumb,' which changes the rhythm of the word. Additionally, ensure you don't confuse it with 'Kutumb-janon' in places where the simple 'Kutumbjan' suffices. While 'Kutumbjanon' is grammatically possible in the oblique case, overusing it can make your Hindi sound stiff and unnatural.

Incorrect: मेरा कुटुंबजन आ रहा है। (My family folk is coming.)
Correct: मेरे कुटुंबजन आ रहे हैं। (My family folk are coming.)

Finally, avoid using 'Kutumbjan' to describe a group of friends or colleagues. While you might feel they are 'like family,' the word is strictly genealogical. For friends, use 'Mitra-gan' or 'Yaar-dost.' Using 'Kutumbjan' for non-relatives might lead people to believe you are actually blood-related to them, which could cause confusion in social or legal contexts.

Hindi has a rich vocabulary for kinship, and choosing the right word depends on the level of formality and the specific 'type' of family you are describing. While कुटुंबजन is formal and collective, here are some common alternatives:

परिवार (Parivaar): The most common word for 'family.' It is neutral and can refer to a nuclear family or an extended one. Unlike 'Kutumbjan,' it is a singular noun that can be pluralized (Parivaaron).
रिश्तेदार (Rishtedaar): This means 'relatives.' It is more general and can include distant cousins or relatives by marriage who might not be part of your immediate 'Kutumb' or household.
कुनबा (Kunba): A more colloquial, often rural term for a large extended family or clan. It sometimes has a slightly chaotic or overwhelming connotation, as in 'पूरा कुनबा आ गया' (The whole clan has arrived!).

Comparing 'Kutumbjan' with 'Khandaan' (खानदान) is also useful. 'Khandaan' is of Urdu origin and carries a strong sense of lineage, reputation, and nobility. You might talk about your 'Khandaan ki izzat' (honor of the lineage). 'Kutumbjan,' being of Sanskrit origin, feels more grounded in the physical reality of the household and the spiritual bond of the members. While they are often interchangeable, 'Kutumbjan' is preferred in Hindu religious contexts, while 'Khandaan' is used more in social and historical discussions across communities.

'परिवार' is for everyone; 'कुटुंबजन' is for the gathering; 'खानदान' is for the legacy.

In modern urban Hindi, many people simply use the English word 'Family' or the phrase 'Ghar ke log' (people of the house). 'Ghar ke log' is the most informal and warm way to refer to the people you live with. If you are inviting a close friend over, you would say 'Ghar ke logon ko bhi saath lana' (Bring the family folk along too), whereas on a formal invitation, you would print 'Kutumbjan.'

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'Kutumb' is also used in some South Indian languages like Tamil and Malayalam (as Kudumbam), showing the deep Sanskrit influence across India.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /kʊˈtʊmb.dʒʌn/

US /kuˈtumb.dʒən/

Primary stress is on the second syllable 'tumb'.

Rhymes With

सज्जन (Sajjan) दुर्जन (Durjan) परिजन (Parijan) भक्तजन (Bhakt-jan) मन (Man) धन (Dhan) तन (Tan) जन (Jan)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'u' as a long 'oo' (Kootumb).
Missing the nasal 'm' sound.
Pronouncing 'Jan' as 'Jan' (like the month January) instead of 'Jun'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Recognizable in formal texts but requires knowledge of the '-jan' suffix.

Writing 4/5

Spelling the nasal 'm' and 'u' sounds correctly can be tricky.

Speaking 3/5

Needs practice with plural verb agreement.

Listening 2/5

Commonly heard in formal speeches and movies.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

परिवार लोग आदमी जन घर

Learn Next

रिश्तेदार परिजन वंश परंपरा पीढ़ी

Advanced

सपिंड गोत्र वंशावली दायित्व उत्तराधिकारी

Grammar to Know

The suffix '-jan' creates a collective plural.

भक्त (Devotee) -> भक्तजन (Devotees).

Masculine nouns ending in consonants often don't change in the direct plural.

कुटुंबजन (Singular-looking but Plural).

Ergative 'ne' requires the verb to agree with the object if the verb is transitive.

कुटुंबजन ने मिठाई (Fem) खाई (Verb agrees with Mithai).

Postpositions trigger the oblique case, but 'Jan' remains 'Jan' or becomes 'Janon'.

कुटुंबजन को / कुटुंबजनों को।

Honorific plural is used for respected groups.

कुटुंबजन पधार रहे हैं (Respectful).

Examples by Level

मेरे कुटुंबजन अच्छे हैं।

My family folk are good.

Uses plural verb 'हैं'.

यहाँ सभी कुटुंबजन हैं।

All the family folk are here.

The word 'सभी' (all) emphasizes the plural nature.

कुटुंबजन खाना खा रहे हैं।

The family folk are eating food.

Present continuous plural verb 'खा रहे हैं'.

क्या आपके कुटुंबजन आए हैं?

Have your family folk arrived?

Question form with plural agreement.

मेरे कुटुंबजन बड़े हैं।

My family folk are many/great.

Adjective 'बड़े' is in the plural form.

कुटुंबजन खुश हैं।

The family folk are happy.

Simple plural predicate.

नमस्ते कुटुंबजन!

Greetings, family folk!

Used as a collective vocative.

वह कुटुंबजन के साथ है।

He is with the family folk.

Use of postposition 'के साथ'.

हम अपने कुटुंबजन के पास जा रहे हैं।

We are going to our family folk.

Reflexive pronoun 'अपने' used.

त्योहार पर सभी कुटुंबजन मिलते हैं।

On festivals, all the family folk meet.

Habitual present tense plural.

मेरे कुटुंबजन गाँव में रहते हैं।

My family folk live in the village.

Plural verb 'रहते हैं'.

कुटुंबजन ने उपहार दिए।

The family folk gave gifts.

Ergative case with 'ने' followed by plural verb.

आज कुटुंबजन की सभा है।

Today is a meeting of the family folk.

Genitive 'की' links to the feminine noun 'सभा'.

मेरे कुटुंबजन बहुत मेहनती हैं।

My family folk are very hardworking.

Plural adjective 'मेहनती' (remains same) with 'हैं'.

कुटुंबजन को मिठाई पसंद है।

The family folk like sweets.

Dative case 'को' with the thing liked as the subject.

कल कुटुंबजन शहर आएँगे।

The family folk will come to the city tomorrow.

Future tense plural 'आएँगे'.

कुटुंबजन की सहमति के बिना विवाह नहीं होगा।

The wedding won't happen without the consent of the family folk.

Complex sentence with postpositional phrase.

हमारे कुटुंबजन में एकता है।

There is unity among our family folk.

Locative case 'में'.

सभी कुटुंबजन ने मिलकर घर सजाया।

All the family folk decorated the house together.

Transitive verb in past tense with 'ने'.

कुटुंबजन के बीच पुराने विवाद सुलझ गए।

Old disputes among the family folk were resolved.

Passive-style construction 'सुलझ गए'.

वह अपने कुटुंबजन का नाम रोशन करना चाहता है।

He wants to make his family folk proud (brighten their name).

Idiomatic expression 'नाम रोशन करना'.

कुटुंबजन की मदद से उसने व्यवसाय शुरू किया।

With the help of the family folk, he started a business.

Instrumental sense using 'की मदद से'.

क्या आपके कुटुंबजन इस बात से सहमत हैं?

Are your family folk in agreement with this?

Plural agreement in a complex question.

कुटुंबजन की परंपराएँ बहुत पुरानी हैं।

The traditions of the family folk are very old.

Possessive 'की' with plural 'परंपराएँ'.

संपत्ति के बँटवारे को लेकर कुटुंबजन में मतभेद थे।

There were differences among the family folk regarding the division of property.

Use of 'को लेकर' (regarding).

कुटुंबजन की उपस्थिति ने उत्सव की शोभा बढ़ा दी।

The presence of the family folk enhanced the beauty of the festival.

Formal register with 'शोभा बढ़ा दी'.

विदेशी मेहमानों का स्वागत सभी कुटुंबजन ने किया।

All the family folk welcomed the foreign guests.

Object-verb agreement in past tense.

कुटुंबजन के प्रति हमारा कर्तव्य सर्वोपरि है।

Our duty towards the family folk is paramount.

Use of 'के प्रति' (towards).

उसने अपने कुटुंबजन के गौरव को बनाए रखा।

He maintained the pride of his family folk.

Abstract noun 'गौरव' (pride).

कुटुंबजन की सलाह पर उसने शहर छोड़ने का निर्णय लिया।

On the advice of the family folk, he decided to leave the city.

Locative 'पर' with 'सलाह' (advice).

कई पीढ़ियों से कुटुंबजन इस मंदिर की सेवा कर रहे हैं।

For many generations, the family folk have been serving this temple.

Present perfect continuous plural.

कुटुंबजन के सामूहिक प्रयासों से यह संभव हुआ।

This became possible through the collective efforts of the family folk.

Adjective 'सामूहिक' (collective).

आधुनिकता के दौर में कुटुंबजन के बीच का बिखराव चिंताजनक है।

In the era of modernity, the fragmentation among family folk is worrying.

Complex abstract nouns 'आधुनिकता' and 'बिखराव'.

कुटुंबजन की मर्यादा का उल्लंघन करना अक्षम्य माना जाता था।

Violating the dignity of the family folk was considered inexcusable.

Gerundial phrase as subject.

साहित्य में कुटुंबजन के अंतर्संबंधों का चित्रण बड़ी सूक्ष्मता से किया गया है।

The depiction of the interrelationships of family folk in literature is done with great subtlety.

Passive voice with 'किया गया है'.

कुटुंबजन की अटूट श्रद्धा ही उनकी शक्ति का मुख्य स्रोत है।

The unbreakable faith of the family folk is the main source of their strength.

Use of 'ही' for emphasis.

न्यायालय ने कुटुंबजन के आपसी विवाद में मध्यस्थता करने का सुझाव दिया।

The court suggested mediating in the mutual dispute of the family folk.

Legal terminology 'मध्यस्थता' (mediation).

कुटुंबजन की स्मृतियाँ हमारे जीवन का अभिन्न अंग होती हैं।

The memories of the family folk are an integral part of our lives.

Generic plural 'होती हैं'.

उसने अपने कुटुंबजन के आदर्शों को तिलांजलि नहीं दी।

He did not sacrifice (abandon) the ideals of his family folk.

Idiom 'तिलांजलि देना' (to abandon/sacrifice).

कुटुंबजन की सामूहिक स्मृतियों में इतिहास जीवित रहता है।

History lives on in the collective memories of the family folk.

Philosophical construction.

कुटुंबजन की पारस्परिकता ही समाज की आधारशिला है।

The reciprocity of the family folk is the very foundation of society.

High-level vocabulary 'पारस्परिकता' and 'आधारशिला'.

विखंडित होते जा रहे कुटुंबजन के ढांचे को पुनर्जीवित करना एक चुनौती है।

Reviving the structure of family folk that is becoming fragmented is a challenge.

Participle phrase 'विखंडित होते जा रहे'.

कुटुंबजन की भावनात्मक संकीर्णता कभी-कभी व्यक्तिगत विकास में बाधक बनती है।

The emotional narrow-mindedness of family folk sometimes becomes an obstacle in personal growth.

Psychological nuance.

वैश्वीकरण ने कुटुंबजन की पारंपरिक परिभाषा को ही बदल दिया है।

Globalization has changed the very traditional definition of family folk.

Abstract subject 'वैश्वीकरण' (globalization).

कुटुंबजन के भीतर व्याप्त पदानुक्रम (hierarchy) का विश्लेषण आवश्यक है।

Analyzing the hierarchy prevalent within the family folk is necessary.

Sociological term 'पदानुक्रम'.

कुटुंबजन की मौन स्वीकृति भी कभी-कभी बड़े निर्णयों का आधार बनती है।

Even the silent acceptance of the family folk sometimes forms the basis of major decisions.

Oxymoronic 'मौन स्वीकृति' (silent acceptance).

सांस्कृतिक विरासत का संरक्षण कुटुंबजन के उत्तरदायित्व पर निर्भर है।

The preservation of cultural heritage depends on the responsibility of the family folk.

Complex genitive structure.

कुटुंबजन की अस्मिता और व्यक्तिगत स्वायत्तता के बीच का द्वंद्व शाश्वत है।

The conflict between the identity of the family folk and individual autonomy is eternal.

Philosophical terms 'अस्मिता' and 'स्वायत्तता'.

Common Collocations

समस्त कुटुंबजन

कुटुंबजन की सलाह

कुटुंबजन का सहयोग

कुटुंबजन के बीच

प्रिय कुटुंबजन

कुटुंबजन की एकता

कुटुंबजन का आशीर्वाद

कुटुंबजन का जमावड़ा

कुटुंबजन की मर्यादा

कुटुंबजन का स्नेह

Common Phrases

कुटुंबजन सहित

— Along with the family folk; often seen on invitations.

आप कुटुंबजन सहित सादर आमंत्रित हैं।

कुटुंबजन की रक्षा

— Protection of the family folk; a traditional duty.

कुटुंबजन की रक्षा करना मेरा धर्म है।

कुटुंबजन का कल्याण

— Welfare of the family folk.

वह हमेशा कुटुंबजन के कल्याण की सोचता है।

कुटुंबजन का साथ

— The company or support of the family folk.

मुश्किल समय में कुटुंबजन का साथ बहुत काम आता है।

कुटुंबजन की सेवा

— Serving the family members, especially elders.

कुटुंबजन की सेवा ही सबसे बड़ी पूजा है।

कुटुंबजन का गौरव

— The pride of the family folk.

उसकी सफलता कुटुंबजन का गौरव है।

कुटुंबजन की परंपरा

— The tradition of the family folk.

हमें कुटुंबजन की परंपरा निभानी चाहिए।

कुटुंबजन की बैठक

— A meeting of the family members.

आज शाम कुटुंबजन की बैठक बुलाई गई है।

कुटुंबजन का प्रेम

— The love shared among family members.

कुटुंबजन का प्रेम अनमोल है।

कुटुंबजन की खुशी

— The happiness of the family folk.

मेरी खुशी कुटुंबजन की खुशी में ही है।

Often Confused With

कुटुंबजन vs परिजन (Parijan)

Parijan is very similar but often refers more specifically to the 'immediate' or 'dear' members of the family/inner circle.

कुटुंबजन vs प्रजाजन (Prajajan)

This refers to the 'subjects' of a king or citizens, not family members.

कुटुंबजन vs मित्रजन (Mitrajan)

This refers to a group of friends.

Idioms & Expressions

"कुटुंब का नाम डुबोना"

— To bring disgrace to the family folk.

उसने चोरी करके कुटुंब का नाम डुबो दिया।

Informal

"कुटुंब का चिराग"

— The 'lamp' or the hope/male heir of the family.

वह अपने कुटुंब का इकलौता चिराग है।

Literary

"एक ही कुटुंब के होना"

— To be of the same blood/family.

हम सब एक ही कुटुंब के हैं, लड़ना ठीक नहीं।

General

"कुटुंब पालना"

— To support or sustain a large family.

इतने बड़े कुटुंब को पालना आसान नहीं है।

General

"कुटुंब में फूट पड़ना"

— Disunity or division occurring within the family.

जायदाद के कारण कुटुंब में फूट पड़ गई।

General

"कुटुंब का बोझ उठाना"

— To bear the responsibility of the whole family.

पिता के बाद उसने पूरे कुटुंब का बोझ उठाया।

General

"कुटुंब की नाक काटना"

— To humiliate the family (literally 'to cut the nose').

गलत काम करके उसने कुटुंब की नाक काट दी।

Informal

"कुटुंब का मान बढ़ाना"

— To increase the honor of the family.

उसने परीक्षा में प्रथम आकर कुटुंब का मान बढ़ाया।

Formal

"कुटुंब की थाती"

— The heritage or 'legacy' of the family folk.

यह ईमानदारी हमारे कुटुंब की थाती है।

Literary

"कुटुंब का सहारा"

— The support/pillar of the family.

बुढ़ापे में बेटा ही कुटुंब का सहारा होता है।

General

Easily Confused

कुटुंबजन vs परिवार

Both mean family.

Parivaar is general/neutral; Kutumbjan is formal/collective and implies extended family.

मेरा परिवार छोटा है, लेकिन शादी में सारे कुटुंबजन आए।

कुटुंबजन vs रिश्तेदार

Both refer to relatives.

Rishtedaar is an individual or general term; Kutumbjan is the collective group of kin.

वह मेरा रिश्तेदार है, और वह हमारे कुटुंबजन का हिस्सा है।

कुटुंबजन vs कुनबा

Both mean extended family.

Kunba is often colloquial or rural; Kutumbjan is more formal and respectful.

पूरा कुनबा शोर मचा रहा था, जबकि कुटुंबजन शांति से बैठे थे।

कुटुंबजन vs लोग

Both refer to people.

Log is anyone; Kutumbjan is specifically family.

बाहर बहुत लोग हैं, लेकिन घर में सिर्फ कुटुंबजन हैं।

कुटुंबजन vs वंश

Both relate to family line.

Vansh is the vertical lineage (ancestors/descendants); Kutumbjan is the horizontal group (living relatives).

हमारा वंश बहुत पुराना है, और आज सभी कुटुंबजन यहाँ हैं।

Sentence Patterns

मेरे कुटुंबजन [Adjective] हैं।

मेरे कुटुंबजन अच्छे हैं।

कुटुंबजन [Place] में रहते हैं।

कुटुंबजन दिल्ली में रहते हैं।

कुटुंबजन ने [Object] [Verb-Past] |

कुटुंबजन ने खाना खाया।

कुटुंबजन की [Noun] [Verb] |

कुटुंबजन की सलाह काम आई।

[Abstract Noun] कुटुंबजन के लिए [Adjective] है।

एकता कुटुंबजन के लिए आवश्यक है।

कुटुंबजन के भीतर [Concept] का [Noun] है।

कुटुंबजन के भीतर परंपराओं का निर्वाह है।

कुटुंबजन के साथ [Verb-Inf] अच्छा है।

कुटुंबजन के साथ रहना अच्छा है।

सब कुटुंबजन [Verb-Present-Cont] |

सब कुटुंबजन हँस रहे हैं।

Word Family

Nouns

कुटुंब (Family/Household)

कुटुंबता (Familiness/Sense of family)

Verbs

कुटुंब पालना (To sustain a family)

Adjectives

कुटुंबिक (Familial/Related to family)

परिवार

वंश

कुनबा

रिश्तेदार

परिजन

How to Use It

frequency

High in formal/written Hindi, medium in spoken Hindi.

Common Mistakes

वह मेरा कुटुंबजन है। → वे मेरे कुटुंबजन हैं।
Kutumbjan is plural; you must use plural pronouns and verbs.
कुटुंबजन आ रहा है। → कुटुंबजन आ रहे हैं।
Verb must be plural ('aa rahe hain').
मेरे मित्र कुटुंबजन हैं। → मेरे मित्र मेरे परिवार जैसे हैं।
Kutumbjan is only for blood/marital relatives.
Kootumbjan → Kutumbjan
The 'u' is short, not a long 'oo' sound.
Using it for a nuclear family only. → Using it for the whole clan.
It sounds too formal for just a mother, father, and child.

Tips

Invitations

When you see 'Kutumbjan' on a card, it means the whole family is inviting you. It's a sign of deep respect.

Verb Agreement

Always end your sentences with 'हैं' (hain) when 'Kutumbjan' is the subject. Never use 'hai'.

Showing Respect

Using this word when talking to an elder about their family will make you sound very polite and culturally aware.

Root Word

Remember 'Jan' (people) is a common suffix. Learning it helps you understand words like 'Sajjan' (good people) and 'Durjan' (bad people).

Spelling

The 'm' in Kutumb is often written as a dot (Anusvara). Ensure you place it over the 'tu'.

Formal Contexts

Expect to hear this word during wedding speeches or at the start of traditional functions.

Parivaar vs Kutumbjan

Think of 'Parivaar' as 'Family' and 'Kutumbjan' as 'The Kinship Circle'.

Sanskrit Influence

This word is a 'Tatsam' word, meaning it is borrowed directly from Sanskrit without change.

Quick Recall

Kutumb = Clan, Jan = Join. The Clan Joined together.

History

The word has been used for thousands of years to describe the fundamental building block of Indian society.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'Tomb' (tumb) where a 'Crew' (ku) of 'People' (jan) are visiting their ancestors. Ku-Tumb-Jan.

Visual Association

Visualize a large banyan tree with many branches and roots—the tree is the Kutumb, and every leaf is a 'Jan' (person).

Word Web

Relatives Ancestry Lineage Gathering Tradition Household Clansmen Kinship

Challenge

Try to write a sentence describing your last holiday using 'Kutumbjan' instead of 'family'.

Word Origin

Sanskrit origin. 'Kutumba' (कुटुम्ब) meaning household, and 'Jana' (जन) meaning people or person.

Original meaning: The people of a single household or a shared dwelling place.

Indo-Aryan

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use it for non-relatives as it specifically implies blood or marital ties.

The closest English equivalent is 'kinsmen' or 'extended family,' but 'Kutumbjan' sounds more warm and less clinical.

The phrase 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' from the Maha Upanishad. Munshi Premchand's stories often depict the struggles of the 'Kutumb'. Popular Hindi wedding card formats.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Wedding Invitation

दर्शनाभिलाषी कुटुंबजन
कुटुंबजन सहित पधारें
समस्त कुटुंबजन की ओर से
स्वागतकर्ता कुटुंबजन

Religious Ceremony

कुटुंबजन की सुख-शांति
कुटुंबजन का कल्याण
कुटुंबजन की उपस्थिति
कुटुंबजन का तर्पण

Legal/Property Dispute

कुटुंबजन के बीच बँटवारा
कुटुंबजन का अधिकार
कुटुंबजन की सहमति
कुटुंबजन का विवाद

Festival Celebration

कुटुंबजन का मिलन
कुटुंबजन की दावत
कुटुंबजन के साथ दिवाली
कुटुंबजन की खुशियाँ

Grief/Condolence

शोकाकुल कुटुंबजन
कुटुंबजन को सांत्वना
कुटुंबजन की क्षति
कुटुंबजन का दुख

Conversation Starters

"आपके कुटुंबजन कहाँ रहते हैं?"

"क्या आपके सभी कुटुंबजन इस शादी में आ रहे हैं?"

"आपके कुटुंबजन की सबसे पुरानी परंपरा क्या है?"

"क्या आपके कुटुंबजन के बीच कोई विशेष पकवान प्रसिद्ध है?"

"त्योहारों पर आपके कुटुंबजन कैसे मिलते हैं?"

Journal Prompts

अपने कुटुंबजन के बारे में पाँच पंक्तियाँ लिखिए।

किसी ऐसी घटना का वर्णन करें जब आपके सभी कुटुंबजन एक साथ थे।

आपके कुटुंबजन ने आपकी सफलता में कैसे मदद की?

क्या आपको लगता है कि आधुनिक युग में कुटुंबजन का महत्व कम हो गया है?

अपने कुटुंबजन के किसी एक बुजुर्ग सदस्य के बारे में लिखिए।

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is always plural because it refers to a group of people ('Jan' means people). Use plural verbs like 'hain' or 'aaye'.

No, it is strictly for relatives and extended family. For friends, use 'Mitra-gan' or 'Yaar-dost'.

It's less common in casual urban slang but very common in formal invitations, religious rituals, and rural settings.

Parivaar is the standard word for family. Kutumbjan is more formal and specifically highlights the collective group of the extended family.

You would say 'कुटुंब का एक सदस्य' (Kutumb ka ek sadasya) or 'परिवार का एक सदस्य'.

Yes, especially in family dramas where traditions and family unity are central themes.

Generally no, unless you are speaking metaphorically in a fable or story.

It is a masculine noun.

Usually, it stays 'Kutumbjan,' but in very formal writing, it can become 'Kutumbjanon' in the oblique case.

It is a famous Sanskrit phrase meaning 'The world is one family,' using the root word 'Kutumb'.