大家庭 in 30 Seconds
- 大家庭 (dà jiā tíng) means a large, extended family.
- It implies multiple generations and close kinship ties.
- Often associated with tradition, warmth, and collective identity.
- Can be used metaphorically for close-knit groups.
In Chinese culture, the concept of a 'large family' or 大家庭 (dà jiā tíng) is deeply rooted and has historical significance. Traditionally, it was common for multiple generations to live under one roof or in close proximity, sharing resources and responsibilities. This extended family model provided a strong social safety net and a sense of belonging. Even in modern times, while nuclear families are more prevalent, the ideal or memory of a 大家庭 often evokes feelings of warmth, support, and tradition. People might use this term when reminiscing about their childhood, describing their grandparents' era, or when discussing family values and the importance of kinship. It's also used to contrast with a smaller, nuclear family. For instance, someone might say, "My grandparents lived in a 大家庭," or "I miss the lively atmosphere of my 大家庭 when I was young." The term emphasizes size and interconnectedness, suggesting a broader network of relatives than just immediate parents and siblings.
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- 大家庭 refers to an extended family, often including grandparents, parents, and children, and sometimes other relatives like aunts, uncles, and cousins, living together or maintaining very close ties.
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- Historically, 大家庭 was the norm in China, providing a strong support system and fostering a sense of collective identity. This structure emphasized filial piety and mutual dependence among family members.
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- In contemporary China, while the prevalence of nuclear families has increased due to urbanization and economic changes, the ideal of a 大家庭 still resonates. It can describe families that, despite living apart, maintain very frequent contact, celebrate holidays together, and provide significant emotional and practical support to one another.
我生长在一个 大家庭，有很多兄弟姐妹和堂兄弟姐妹。
以前的中国农村，很多家庭都是 大家庭。
虽然我们分开住了，但我们仍然保持着 大家庭 的感觉。
Using 大家庭 in sentences is straightforward, typically functioning as a noun. It can be the subject, object, or part of a prepositional phrase. When describing one's own family background, you might say, "我的爷爷奶奶住在一个 大家庭 里" (Wǒ de yéye nǎinai zhù zài yīgè dà jiā tíng lǐ - My grandparents lived in a large family). As an object, you could state, "他们喜欢过 大家庭 的生活" (Tāmen xǐhuān guò dà jiā tíng de shēnghuó - They like living the life of a large family). It can also be used in comparisons: "现在的小家庭和以前的 大家庭 很不一样" (Xiànzài de xiǎo jiātíng hé yǐqián de dà jiā tíng hěn bù yīyàng - Today's small families are very different from the large families of the past). The phrase can also be used to describe a group of people who feel like a large family, even if not related by blood: "我们公司就像一个 大家庭" (Wǒmen gōngsī jiù xiàng yīgè dà jiā tíng - Our company is like a big family). This metaphorical use highlights the warmth, closeness, and mutual support associated with the term. Remember that 大家庭 is generally a positive term, evoking a sense of tradition, unity, and belonging.
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- Subject: 大家庭 曾是中国社会的重要组成部分。
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- Object: 他怀念在 大家庭 里成长的日子。
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- Metaphorical Use: 我们的团队是一个 大家庭，互相帮助，共同进步。
我父母来自一个 大家庭，所以我有许多叔叔阿姨和表兄弟姐妹。
我们计划在春节时，把散居各地的亲戚都召集起来，过一个 大家庭 的团圆饭。
You'll frequently encounter 大家庭 in conversations about family history, especially from older generations who grew up in more traditional settings. It's common in discussions about past lifestyles, rural communities, and the social structures of pre-modern China. For example, during family gatherings, elders might share stories like, "以前我们家是一个 大家庭，每天吃饭都要摆好几桌" (Yǐqián wǒmen jiā shì yīgè dà jiā tíng, měitiān chīfàn dōu yào bǎi hǎijǐ zhuō - In the past, our family was a large family; we needed several tables for meals every day). In media, documentaries, historical dramas, and novels often depict or refer to 大家庭 to portray a specific era or social environment. You might hear it in phrases like "感受 大家庭 的温暖" (gǎnshòu dà jiā tíng de wēnnuǎn - to feel the warmth of a large family), emphasizing the emotional aspect. In a more modern context, it can be used metaphorically in workplaces or communities to describe a group that functions with strong camaraderie and mutual support: "我们公司就像一个 大家庭，大家互相照顾" (Wǒmen gōngsī jiù xiàng yīgè dà jiā tíng, dàjiā hùxiāng zhàogù - Our company is like a big family; everyone looks after each other). The term is also used when discussing societal changes, contrasting the past prevalence of extended families with the current trend towards smaller, nuclear units.
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- Conversations about grandparents' or great-grandparents' lives often involve stories of living in a 大家庭.
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- Historical dramas and novels set in older times frequently depict characters belonging to 大家庭.
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- Metaphorically, the term is used in workplace or community settings to describe a close-knit group.
在一次家庭聚会上，奶奶讲起她小时候 大家庭 的生活趣事。
这部电影描绘了一个传统 大家庭 的兴衰史。
A common mistake for learners might be to confuse 大家庭 with just any large group of people, or to overemphasize the 'living together' aspect. While traditionally 大家庭 often implied cohabitation, in modern usage, it can also refer to families that live separately but maintain very strong, frequent connections and a sense of collective identity. So, saying "我住在一个 大家庭" (Wǒ zhù zài yīgè dà jiā tíng - I live in a large family) might be inaccurate if you live alone or with just your immediate family, unless you are using it metaphorically for a very close-knit living situation. Another potential misunderstanding is to think it's just a 'big family' in terms of numbers without the implied warmth and interconnectedness. For example, simply having many siblings doesn't automatically make it a 大家庭 if the relationships are distant. Learners might also incorrectly use it to describe a group of friends who are close, without realizing the primary connotation is familial. While the metaphorical use exists, the core meaning is tied to kinship. Ensure the context implies a family or a family-like group when using 大家庭.
- Mistake
- Using 大家庭 to describe any large group of people, like a sports team, without the familial connection.
- Mistake
- Assuming 大家庭 always means everyone lives in the same house.
- Mistake
- Confusing the literal meaning of 'big family' with the cultural implications of closeness and support.
Incorrect: 我们班是一个 大家庭 (if it's just a class, not a close-knit group).
Correct (for a close-knit group): 我们的团队像一个 大家庭。
While 大家庭 specifically refers to a large, often extended, family, there are other terms related to family structures.
- 大家庭 (dà jiā tíng)
- Focuses on the extended family, implying multiple generations and close kinship ties. It carries a sense of tradition, warmth, and collective identity.
- 家庭 (jiātíng)
- This is the general term for 'family'. It can refer to a nuclear family or any family unit without specifying its size or structure. It's the most neutral term.
- 小家庭 (xiǎo jiātíng)
- Literally 'small family', this term refers to a nuclear family, typically consisting of parents and their children. It's often used in contrast to 大家庭.
- 亲戚 (qīnqi)
- This refers to 'relatives' or 'relations'. While 大家庭 encompasses 亲戚, 亲戚 itself is a broader term for people connected by blood or marriage, not necessarily a single family unit.
- 家族 (jiāzú)
- This term refers to a clan or a lineage, often implying a much larger and more historically rooted family group than 大家庭. It emphasizes ancestry and a shared surname across multiple branches.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
In ancient China, the concept of a 'great family' or 大家庭 was not just about blood relations but also about a shared economic and social responsibility. Multiple generations often lived together, pooling resources and labor for mutual survival and prosperity.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'dà' with aspiration (like 'tah').
- Confusing the 'jiā' sound with 'jia' in 'jar'.
- Not aspirating the 't' in 'tíng', making it sound like 'ding'.
Difficulty Rating
The character combination is straightforward, and the concept is generally understood from context. Learners might encounter it in texts discussing family, history, or culture. Understanding its nuances, especially its cultural implications, requires more advanced comprehension.
Using 大家庭 correctly in writing involves understanding its cultural context and choosing appropriate sentence structures. Learners at A2 level should be able to use it in simple sentences to describe family structures or aspirations.
Pronunciation is relatively easy for most learners. The challenge lies in using it naturally in conversation, especially when discussing personal experiences or cultural comparisons.
The word is common enough that learners will likely hear it in dialogues or discussions related to family and tradition. Its pronunciation is not overly complex.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using '是' (shì) for identification.
我家以前是一个 大家庭。
Using '在...里' (zài...lǐ) for location.
在 大家庭 里，我们学会了分享。
Using '的' (de) for possession or modification.
我喜欢 大家庭 的生活。
Using '像' (xiàng) for comparison.
这个团队像一个 大家庭。
Using '过' (guò) to indicate experience or lifestyle.
他们过着 大家庭 式的生活。
Examples by Level
我的家很大。
My home is big.
我有好多亲戚。
I have many relatives.
我们一起吃饭。
We eat together.
爷爷奶奶和我住。
Grandparents live with me.
这是一个大家庭。
This is a large family.
我爱我的家人。
I love my family.
他们住在同一个屋檐下。
They live under the same roof.
家里很热闹。
The home is lively.
我生长在一个 大家庭，有祖父母、父母和许多兄弟姐妹。
I grew up in a large family, with grandparents, parents, and many siblings.
大家庭 functions as a noun phrase, the object of the preposition 在.
以前，很多中国农村的家庭都是 大家庭。
In the past, many rural Chinese families were large families.
大家庭 acts as a predicate nominative after the verb 是.
虽然我们现在分开住了，但我们仍保持着 大家庭 的感觉。
Although we live separately now, we still maintain the feeling of a large family.
大家庭 is part of the noun phrase 大家庭 的感觉, functioning as the object of the preposition 的.
他们喜欢过 大家庭 式的生活，总是聚在一起。
They like to live a large-family-style life, always gathering together.
大家庭 acts as an adjective modifying 式的生活.
她怀念童年时 大家庭 的热闹和温暖。
She misses the liveliness and warmth of her large family during her childhood.
大家庭 is part of the noun phrase 大家庭 的热闹和温暖, acting as the possessor.
在 大家庭 中，长辈通常扮演着重要的角色。
In a large family, elders usually play important roles.
大家庭 is the object of the preposition 在.
我们公司的同事就像一个 大家庭。
The colleagues in our company are like a large family.
大家庭 is the predicate nominative after the verb 像.
过年的时候，我们都会回到乡下，和 大家庭 一起过节。
During Chinese New Year, we all return to the countryside to celebrate with the large family.
大家庭 is part of the prepositional phrase 和 大家庭 一起.
我来自一个传统意义上的 大家庭，祖父母、叔叔阿姨和表兄弟姐妹都住得很近。
I come from a large family in the traditional sense, with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins living very close by.
大家庭 is used here to specify the type of family in a traditional context.
尽管现代社会提倡小家庭，但 大家庭 所蕴含的亲情和支持仍然被看重。
Although modern society advocates for small families, the affection and support inherent in large families are still valued.
大家庭 is the subject of the clause, referring to the concept of large families.
她选择回到家乡，经营祖辈留下的 大家庭 式的生意。
She chose to return to her hometown to manage the large-family-style business left by her ancestors.
大家庭 acts as an adjective modifying 式的生意, indicating a business run in the style of a large family.
在 大家庭 里，孩子能从更多的长辈那里获得关爱和指导。
In a large family, children can receive care and guidance from more elders.
大家庭 is the object of the preposition 在, indicating the setting.
随着城市化进程的加快，传统的 大家庭 模式逐渐被小家庭所取代。
With the acceleration of urbanization, the traditional large-family model is gradually being replaced by small families.
大家庭 is used attributively with 模式, modifying it.
他们虽然不住在一起，但每个周末都会组织 大家庭 的聚会。
Although they don't live together, they organize large-family gatherings every weekend.
大家庭 is part of the noun phrase 大家庭 的聚会, acting as the possessor.
她认为，维系 大家庭 的纽带是共同的价值观和情感联系。
She believes that the bond of maintaining a large family is shared values and emotional connection.
大家庭 is the object of the verb 维系.
在这个 大家庭 里，每个成员都感到被爱和被重视。
In this large family, every member feels loved and valued.
大家庭 is the object of the preposition 在.
在许多亚洲文化中，大家庭 的概念依然根深蒂固，强调集体而非个体。
In many Asian cultures, the concept of the large family remains deeply ingrained, emphasizing the collective rather than the individual.
大家庭 is the subject of the clause, representing the concept.
尽管面临现代化和城市化的挑战，许多家庭仍在努力维系 大家庭 的传统。
Despite facing the challenges of modernization and urbanization, many families are still striving to maintain the traditions of the large family.
大家庭 is the object of the verb 维系.
他分享了自己在一个 大家庭 中成长的经历，强调了多代同堂带来的独特体验。
He shared his experience growing up in a large family, emphasizing the unique experiences that come with multiple generations living together.
大家庭 is part of the prepositional phrase indicating the context of his growth.
这种 大家庭 式的互助模式，在应对经济困难时尤为重要。
This large-family-style mutual aid model is particularly important when facing economic difficulties.
大家庭 acts as an attributive modifying 式的互助模式.
随着社会变迁，大家庭 的结构也在发生演变，变得更加灵活和多样。
With social changes, the structure of large families is also evolving, becoming more flexible and diverse.
大家庭 is the subject of the clause, referring to the structure itself.
在一次采访中，这位艺术家将他的工作室比作一个 大家庭，所有成员都互相启发。
In an interview, the artist likened his studio to a large family, where all members inspire each other.
大家庭 is the predicate nominative after the verb 比作.
她认为，即使是现代的 大家庭，也需要明确的沟通和责任划分。
She believes that even modern large families need clear communication and division of responsibilities.
大家庭 is used attributively with the implied noun 'family'.
这个村落保留了许多 大家庭 的生活习惯和文化传统。
This village preserves many living habits and cultural traditions of large families.
大家庭 is part of the noun phrase 大家庭 的生活习惯和文化传统, acting as the possessor.
在深入研究中国传统社会结构时，我们不能忽视 大家庭 作为社会基本单元所扮演的核心角色。
When deeply researching traditional Chinese social structures, we cannot overlook the core role that the large family played as the fundamental social unit.
大家庭 is used as the subject, referring to the concept in a sociological context.
尽管现代社会结构趋向原子化，但 大家庭 所代表的集体主义精神在某些领域仍有其影响力。
Although modern social structures tend towards atomization, the spirit of collectivism represented by the large family still has its influence in certain fields.
大家庭 is the subject of the clause, representing the spirit.
她通过文学创作，试图重现一个已逐渐消逝的 大家庭 的温暖与复杂性。
Through literary creation, she attempts to recreate the warmth and complexity of a large family that is gradually disappearing.
大家庭 is used attributively with the implied noun 'family' or 'world'.
这种 大家庭 式的组织模式，虽然在效率上可能不如精简的现代企业，却能提供强大的情感支持和归属感。
This large-family-style organizational model, while potentially less efficient than streamlined modern enterprises, can provide strong emotional support and a sense of belonging.
大家庭 acts as an adjective modifying 式的组织模式.
在探讨家庭伦理的演变时，我们不能简单地将 大家庭 视为过时的制度，而应理解其历史功能与现代价值。
When discussing the evolution of family ethics, we cannot simply view the large family as an outdated system, but should understand its historical functions and modern value.
大家庭 is the object of the verb 视为.
他将这次跨国合作项目形容为一个 大家庭 的协作，强调了文化融合的重要性。
He described this multinational collaborative project as the cooperation of a large family, emphasizing the importance of cultural integration.
大家庭 is used metaphorically as the object of the verb 形容为.
在研究乡土社会时，大家庭 的内部动力学及其与外部社会的关系是不可或缺的分析维度。
When studying rural societies, the internal dynamics of the large family and its relationship with the external society are indispensable analytical dimensions.
大家庭 is the subject, referring to the internal dynamics.
尽管面临诸多挑战，该社区仍试图重塑一种 大家庭 式的社区精神，以增强凝聚力。
Despite facing numerous challenges, the community still attempts to reshape a large-family-style community spirit to enhance cohesion.
大家庭 acts as an adjective modifying 式的社区精神.
对大家庭 的怀旧情结，在一定程度上反映了后工业社会中个体对稳定、归属感和集体认同的深层渴望。
The nostalgic sentiment towards large families, to some extent, reflects the deep yearning for stability, belonging, and collective identity in post-industrial society.
大家庭 is the object of the noun phrase 怀旧情结.
历史学研究表明，大家庭 不仅是经济单元，更是文化传承、社会规范内化以及代际知识传递的关键载体。
Historical research indicates that the large family was not only an economic unit but also a crucial vehicle for cultural transmission, internalization of social norms, and intergenerational knowledge transfer.
大家庭 is the subject, referring to its multifaceted role.
在当代语境下，当我们将某个组织或群体形容为大家庭 时，我们往往是在隐喻其高度的凝聚力、成员间的深厚情谊以及共同的使命感。
In the contemporary context, when we describe an organization or group as a large family, we are often metaphorically referring to its high cohesion, deep camaraderie among members, and shared sense of mission.
大家庭 is used metaphorically as the predicate nominative after the verb 形容为.
尽管社会结构发生了翻天覆地的变化，但大家庭 所蕴含的互助精神和集体责任感，在某些亚文化群体中依然得到了某种程度的延续。
Despite sweeping changes in social structure, the spirit of mutual aid and collective responsibility inherent in large families still continues to some extent in certain subcultural groups.
大家庭 is the object of the preposition of the noun phrase 所蕴含的互助精神和集体责任感.
她对童年时期大家庭 的回忆，构成了她艺术创作中一个反复出现的主题，象征着失落的纯真与稳定。
Her memories of her large family during childhood constitute a recurring theme in her artistic creations, symbolizing lost innocence and stability.
大家庭 is part of the noun phrase 童年时期大家庭 的回忆, acting as the possessor.
在研究中国现代化的进程中，分析大家庭 如何适应或抵制社会变革，是理解社会转型动态的关键。
In studying the process of China's modernization, analyzing how large families adapt to or resist social changes is key to understanding the dynamics of social transformation.
大家庭 is the object of the verb 分析.
这种大家庭 式的社会资本，虽然在结构上不如正式组织明确，但在应对突发危机时却展现出惊人的韧性。
This large-family-style social capital, although less clearly structured than formal organizations, demonstrates surprising resilience when facing sudden crises.
大家庭 acts as an adjective modifying 式的社会资本.
她通过对大家庭 叙事的解构，揭示了其中隐含的权力结构和性别角色。
By deconstructing the narrative of the large family, she reveals the implicit power structures and gender roles within it.
大家庭 is the object of the noun phrase 的叙事.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To live a life characteristic of a large, extended family, often involving close interaction and shared responsibilities among many relatives.
我父母喜欢过大家庭 的生活，所以我们经常邀请亲戚来家里。
— The feeling of warmth, love, security, and belonging that comes from being part of a large, close-knit family.
即使搬到大城市，她也时常怀念大家庭 的温暖。
— To be very close-knit and supportive, similar to how a large family is perceived, often used metaphorically for groups like companies or teams.
我们公司虽然不大，但所有人都像一个大家庭 一样。
— To miss or fondly remember the times spent with or the atmosphere of a large, extended family.
他上了年纪，特别怀念大家庭 的日子。
— The rules, traditions, or expected behaviors within a large, extended family, often passed down through generations.
在大家庭 里，长辈的意见很重要，这是我们家的规矩。
— To return to one's extended family or a familial setting, often implying a sense of belonging and homecoming.
毕业后，他选择回归大家庭，帮助家族企业。
— The strong connections, relationships, and bonds that link members of a large, extended family together.
虽然大家不住在一起，但大家庭 的纽带依然牢固。
— The structural or organizational pattern of a large, extended family, often contrasted with the nuclear family model.
现代社会中，大家庭 的模式越来越少见了。
— The happiness and well-being experienced by members of a large, extended family, often attributed to mutual support and strong relationships.
他最大的愿望就是看到大家庭 的幸福。
— The duties and obligations that members of a large, extended family have towards each other, such as caring for elders or supporting younger generations.
在大家庭 里，照顾老人是每个人的责任。
Often Confused With
家庭 is the general term for 'family' and can refer to any family unit, including nuclear families. 大家庭 specifically implies a large, extended family structure with multiple generations and close kinship ties, often carrying more cultural weight.
家族 refers to a clan or lineage, emphasizing ancestry, surname, and a much broader historical family network than 大家庭, which typically focuses on a more immediate extended family unit.
人多 simply means 'many people.' While a 大家庭 has many people, 大家庭 implies a specific familial relationship and structure, whereas 人多 can refer to any large group.
Idioms & Expressions
— Literally 'five generations living under one roof.' This idiom represents the ultimate ideal of a traditional, cohesive, and prosperous large family, signifying longevity and family continuity.
在那个年代，能实现五世同堂 是非常了不起的成就。
Formal, Traditional— Describes a family that is flourishing with many descendants. It implies a large, healthy, and growing family line, often seen as a sign of good fortune and prosperity.
祝愿你家人丁兴旺，代代相传。
Formal, Auspicious— Literally 'scattered and broken.' While not directly meaning 'large family,' it can describe a large family that has broken apart or is no longer cohesive, emphasizing fragmentation and loss of unity.
由于战乱，这个曾经大家庭 变得支离破碎。
Descriptive, Negative Connotation— Literally 'many people, mixed voices.' This idiom describes a situation with too many people talking at once, leading to confusion or gossip. It can be a negative aspect of a large gathering or a large family.
每次大家庭聚会都人多嘴杂，很难听到清楚的话。
Informal, Negative Connotation— Literally 'flesh and blood connected.' This idiom emphasizes the deep, unbreakable bond between family members, highlighting the inherent connection and affection within a family, especially a large one.
无论走到哪里，我们骨肉相连，心总是在一起。
Emotive, Positive Connotation— Similar to 五世同堂, but can refer to any multiple generations (more than two) living together. It emphasizes the continuity and presence of different generations within the same household or closely related.
他们家一直保持着世代同堂 的传统。
Formal, Traditional— Literally 'large family, large enterprise.' This idiom describes a family that is wealthy and influential, often implying a large family business or significant assets. It focuses on the prosperity and scale of the family's holdings.
他们家家大业大，在当地很有名望。
Formal, Prosperous— Literally 'sons and grandsons filling the hall.' This idiom describes a family with many descendants, representing a fulfilled and prosperous family line, often considered a blessing.
老人最大的心愿就是儿孙满堂。
Auspicious, Traditional— Describes a scene of happiness, harmony, and warmth, often used to depict a family gathering or the general atmosphere within a happy household.
每到周末，大家庭 聚在一起，其乐融融。
Emotive, Positive Connotation— Describes the traditional roles of a strict father and a loving mother. While not directly about size, it reflects the dynamics within a family, and can be a characteristic of how parents raise children in a 大家庭.
在大家庭 中，严父慈母 的教育方式很常见。
Descriptive, TraditionalEasily Confused
Both refer to family.
家庭 is the general term for 'family' and can be a nuclear family or any family. 大家庭 specifically refers to a large, extended family, often including multiple generations and close relatives like grandparents, aunts, and uncles. It carries a connotation of tradition, warmth, and collective living.
我有一个<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>家庭</mark>。(General family) vs. 我生长在一个<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark>。(Specific large, extended family)
Both are types of families.
大家庭 refers to a large, extended family, typically with multiple generations and numerous relatives living together or in close proximity. 小家庭 refers to a nuclear family, consisting mainly of parents and their children, often living separately from other relatives. They are often contrasted.
以前是<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark>，现在多是<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>小家庭</mark>。
Both relate to family members.
亲戚 (qīnqi) is a general term for 'relatives' or 'relations,' encompassing anyone connected by blood or marriage. 大家庭 refers to a specific unit or structure formed by these relatives, emphasizing their collective living or close ties. You belong to a 大家庭 which is made up of your 亲戚.
他有很多<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>亲戚</mark>，形成了一个<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark>。
Both refer to large family groups.
大家庭 refers to a large, extended family unit, often implying multiple generations living together or maintaining very close relationships. 家族 refers to a clan or lineage, emphasizing ancestry, a shared surname, and a much broader, often historically rooted, network of relatives across multiple branches. While a 大家庭 can be part of a 家族, 家族 is on a larger, more genealogical scale.
这个<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 是一个<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>家族</mark> 的一部分。
Both imply a large number of people.
人多 simply means 'many people' and can refer to any group. 大家庭 specifically refers to a large family structure, implying familial bonds, generations, and often a shared living space or close interaction. The term carries cultural connotations of warmth, tradition, and collective identity that '人多' does not.
这个<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 很<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>人多</mark> (This large family has many people) vs. 这里的<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>人多</mark> (There are many people here - could be a market).
Sentence Patterns
我生长在一个 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark>。
我生长在一个 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark>。
在 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 里，...
在 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 里，每个人都有自己的任务。
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 的 + Noun
我怀念 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 的温暖。
像 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 一样
我们公司像 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 一样。
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 式的 + Noun
他们过着 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 式的生活。
尽管...，但 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> ...
尽管现代社会提倡小家庭，但 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 的亲情仍然重要。
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 作为 + Noun Phrase
<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 作为社会基本单元，扮演了重要角色。
对 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 的 + Noun
她对 <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>大家庭</mark> 的怀念，体现在她的作品中。
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Common, especially when discussing family history, traditions, or in nostalgic contexts.
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Confusing 大家庭 with just 'many people'.
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大家庭 refers to a large *family*, implying kinship and structure.
Learners might use 大家庭 to describe any group with many people, like a crowd at an event. However, 大家庭 specifically denotes a familial unit, often extended, with strong bonds. For any large group, use '人多' (rén duō).
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Assuming 大家庭 always means living together.
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大家庭 can refer to families that live apart but maintain strong connections.
While traditionally 大家庭 implied cohabitation, modern usage includes families that are geographically separated but remain closely connected emotionally and through frequent interaction. It emphasizes the bond, not just proximity.
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Using 大家庭 to describe a small nuclear family.
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Use '小家庭' (xiǎo jiātíng) for a nuclear family.
大家庭 specifically means a large, extended family. For a family consisting only of parents and children, the correct term is '小家庭'. Using 大家庭 for a small family is incorrect.
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Ignoring the cultural connotations.
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Recognize 大家庭's cultural significance of tradition, support, and collective identity.
Simply translating 大家庭 as 'big family' misses its cultural weight in China, where it represents a historical social structure emphasizing filial piety, mutual responsibility, and collective well-being. Understanding these nuances is key to appropriate usage.
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Incorrect tone pronunciation.
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dà (4th tone) jiā (1st tone) tíng (2nd tone).
Mispronouncing the tones can lead to misunderstandings. For example, changing the tone of 'dà' or 'jiā' could alter the meaning or make the word sound unnatural.
Tips
Master the Tones
The tones are essential for differentiating meaning in Mandarin. Pay close attention to the 4th tone of 'dà', the 1st tone of 'jiā', and the 2nd tone of 'tíng'. Practice saying them repeatedly.
Understand the Cultural Nuance
大家庭 is more than just 'big family'. It carries deep cultural connotations of tradition, collective responsibility, and strong kinship bonds in Chinese society. Understanding this context will help you use it more appropriately.
Distinguish Literal vs. Metaphorical Use
Remember that 大家庭 can be used literally for an extended family or metaphorically for any group that shares strong bonds and mutual support, like a close-knit team or company.
Connect with Related Terms
Learn related terms like '家庭' (family), '小家庭' (nuclear family), and '亲戚' (relatives) to build a more comprehensive understanding of family-related vocabulary.
Visualize the Concept
Create a mental image of a large, bustling house filled with people of all ages, laughing and interacting. This visual aid can help you recall the meaning of 大家庭.
Use it in Sentences
Actively try to incorporate 大家庭 into your own sentences, both in writing and speaking, to solidify your understanding and usage.
Listen in Context
When listening to Chinese media or conversations, pay attention to how and when 大家庭 is used. This will expose you to natural usage patterns and nuances.
Note Sentence Patterns
Familiarize yourself with common sentence patterns like '我生长在一个大家庭' or '我们公司像一个大家庭' to learn how to construct grammatically correct sentences.
Contrast with English Terms
Understand how 大家庭 differs from English terms like 'large family' or 'extended family' to avoid oversimplification and capture its unique cultural meaning.
Regularly Review
Periodically review the definition, examples, and usage notes for 大家庭 to ensure it remains fresh in your memory and to deepen your understanding.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'big' (大) 'courtyard' (庭) filled with many people – that's your 'family' (家). So, 'big courtyard family' is a large family!
Visual Association
Picture a very large house with many doors and windows, with numerous people of different ages (grandparents, parents, children, aunts, uncles) happily interacting in the garden and inside. This visual represents the spaciousness and multitude of people in a 大家庭.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe your ideal family scenario using the term 大家庭, focusing on the relationships and atmosphere you envision.
Word Origin
The term 大家庭 is a combination of 大家 (dàjiā) meaning 'big' or 'great' and 庭 (tíng) meaning 'courtyard' or 'hall,' which metaphorically represents a family home. The combination thus signifies a 'big family home' or a large family unit.
Original meaning: The character 庭 (tíng) originally referred to a courtyard within a house, which was often a central gathering place for the family. Over time, it came to represent the entire house or a family unit.
Sino-TibetanCultural Context
When discussing 大家庭, be mindful that modern family structures vary greatly. While the term often evokes positive connotations of warmth and unity, it's important not to assume that all traditional 大家庭 were idyllic or that everyone desires such a structure today. The term can also imply a certain level of social expectation or pressure.
In English-speaking cultures, the term 'large family' might refer to a family with many children, but 'extended family' is more commonly used to include grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. The cultural weight of '大家庭' in China, with its emphasis on collective living, historical continuity, and deep-rooted social obligations, is often more profound than the typical English understanding of 'large family' or even 'extended family'.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Family history and storytelling
- 我奶奶就是在一个大家庭里长大的。
- 以前的大家庭生活很热闹。
- 怀念大家庭的时光。
Describing family structure
- 他们家是一个大家庭。
- 我们家虽然是小家庭，但和亲戚们联系很紧密。
- 这是我见过的最大的大家庭。
Cultural discussions
- 在中国，大家庭曾是重要的社会单位。
- 大家庭所代表的传统价值观。
- 现代社会大家庭模式的演变。
Metaphorical use for close-knit groups
- 我们公司就像一个大家庭。
- 这个团队像个大家庭一样互相帮助。
- 希望大家庭里充满爱。
Nostalgia and reminiscence
- 我怀念童年时大家庭的温暖。
- 那段大家庭的生活真让人难忘。
- 大家庭的团聚是最幸福的时刻。
Conversation Starters
"Do you come from a large family, or what we call a 大家庭?"
"What are your memories or impressions of 大家庭 from stories or media?"
"How do you think the concept of 大家庭 has changed in modern times?"
"If you could choose, would you prefer to live in a 大家庭 or a smaller family unit?"
"What are the benefits and drawbacks of living in a 大家庭?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you experienced or observed the warmth and support of a 大家庭.
If you were to create your ideal '大家庭' (literal or metaphorical), what would it be like?
Reflect on the differences between a traditional 大家庭 and modern family structures in your culture.
Write a short story about a memorable event that happened within a 大家庭.
What does the concept of 'family' mean to you, and how does 大家庭 fit into that definition?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThe literal translation of 大家庭 is 'big family' or 'great family'. '大' (dà) means big/great, '家' (jiā) means family/home, and '庭' (tíng) originally referred to a courtyard or hall, metaphorically representing a family dwelling or unit. So, it translates to a 'big family home' or a 'great family'.
Traditionally, 大家庭 often implied multiple generations living under the same roof or in very close proximity. However, in modern usage, it can also refer to families that live separately but maintain very strong, frequent contact, and a sense of collective identity and mutual support. The emphasis is on the extended kinship and close bonds, not strictly cohabitation.
Generally, 大家庭 is a positive term, evoking feelings of warmth, security, tradition, and belonging. It's associated with strong family ties and mutual support. However, negative aspects like '人多嘴杂' (too many people, too much gossip) can be associated with large gatherings within a 大家庭, but the term itself is usually positive.
In English, 'family' can refer to a nuclear family (parents and children) or an extended family. 'Large family' might just mean many children. 大家庭 specifically emphasizes the 'extended' aspect, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, and often carries a deeper cultural significance related to tradition, collective living, and strong kinship bonds that might not be present in the English 'family' or 'large family'.
Yes, 大家庭 can be used metaphorically to describe any group of people who are very close-knit, supportive, and share a strong sense of belonging, similar to a large family. For example, colleagues in a company or members of a team might refer to themselves as a 大家庭.
Common phrases include '过大家庭的生活' (to live the life of a large family), '大家庭的温暖' (the warmth of a large family), '像一个大家庭' (like a large family), and '怀念大家庭' (to miss a large family).
Historically, the 大家庭 was the primary social and economic unit in China. It provided a system of mutual support, ensured care for the elderly and children, and facilitated agricultural labor. It was deeply intertwined with Confucian values like filial piety and respect for elders.
While the prevalence of living arrangements has shifted towards nuclear families due to urbanization and modern lifestyles, the concept of 大家庭 remains culturally relevant. It continues to represent an ideal of strong kinship, mutual support, and collective identity, influencing family values and social expectations.
The main antonyms are '小家庭' (xiǎo jiātíng - nuclear family) and terms indicating a lack of family or being alone, such as '单身' (dānshēn - single) or '独居' (dú jū - living alone).
It is pronounced dà (4th tone) jiā (1st tone) tíng (2nd tone). The tones are crucial for correct pronunciation and meaning.
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Summary
大家庭 refers to a large, extended family, emphasizing the interconnectedness and warmth of multiple generations living together or maintaining strong bonds. It carries cultural weight, representing tradition and collective support.
- 大家庭 (dà jiā tíng) means a large, extended family.
- It implies multiple generations and close kinship ties.
- Often associated with tradition, warmth, and collective identity.
- Can be used metaphorically for close-knit groups.
Master the Tones
The tones are essential for differentiating meaning in Mandarin. Pay close attention to the 4th tone of 'dà', the 1st tone of 'jiā', and the 2nd tone of 'tíng'. Practice saying them repeatedly.
Understand the Cultural Nuance
大家庭 is more than just 'big family'. It carries deep cultural connotations of tradition, collective responsibility, and strong kinship bonds in Chinese society. Understanding this context will help you use it more appropriately.
Distinguish Literal vs. Metaphorical Use
Remember that 大家庭 can be used literally for an extended family or metaphorically for any group that shares strong bonds and mutual support, like a close-knit team or company.
Connect with Related Terms
Learn related terms like '家庭' (family), '小家庭' (nuclear family), and '亲戚' (relatives) to build a more comprehensive understanding of family-related vocabulary.
Example
我们是一个幸福的大家庭。
