TransWikia.com

Does the term "family" include the person themselves?

English Language & Usage Asked on April 15, 2021

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the term family as "a social group made up of parents and their children." So it’s my understanding that this would include me, my parents and any siblings. However, some people say "you and your family" as if they’re two separate entities. The examples I see the most often are "I wish you and your family all the best" and "deepest condolences to you and your family."

So does the term family include that person themselves? In other words, is the phrase "you and your family" redundant?

One Answer

In this context, family can specify exactly who and who it refers to. He's" family". You and your family is not redundant. "Your family", or "the family that belongs to you."

When said in conversation, "your family is always welcome here" or "you and your family are always welcome here". By not including "you and", "your family" is referring to members of your family who are not present to hear it. My family is hosting our tenth annual holiday party in honor of the Singh family's arrival in the new world.

You and your family generalizes to "your family". Is your family going hiking this year? Without additional context, it's impossible to determine if "your family" and your family.

Family - FAMILiar to You

"Is he family?", "No, never seen him before."

When used in writing, "your family" is almost always

Answered by Andrew Magrisso on April 15, 2021

Add your own answers!

Ask a Question

Get help from others!

© 2024 TransWikia.com. All rights reserved. Sites we Love: PCI Database, UKBizDB, Menu Kuliner, Sharing RPP