Family Name
Definition:
A family name is the name that identifies all the members of a family. It is different from a person's first name (also known as a given name). The family name is often the same for parents, children, and other relatives.
Usage Instructions:
When you talk about someone’s full name, it usually includes a first name and a family name. In English-speaking countries, the family name often comes last. For example, in "John Smith," "Smith" is the family name.
Example:
- "My family name is Johnson. My father’s name is David Johnson, and my mother’s name is Sarah Johnson."
Advanced Usage:
In some cultures, the family name may come first. For example, in Chinese names, the family name is usually placed before the given name, like "Li Wei," where "Li" is the family name.
Word Variants:
- Surname: This is another word that means the same as family name. For example, "What is your surname?" - Last Name: This is a common term used in the United States and other countries to refer to the family name.
Different Meanings:
While "family name" generally refers to the surname, in some contexts, it can also refer to the lineage or heritage of a family.
Synonyms:
- Surname - Last name - Clan name (in some cultures)
Idioms:
There aren’t specific idioms that use "family name," but you might hear phrases like: - "Carry the family name," which means to uphold the reputation or tradition of the family.
Phrasal Verbs:
There are no specific phrasal verbs directly related to "family name," but understanding related phrases can be helpful, like "to name after" (choosing a name that honors a family member).
Summary:
The family name is an important part of a person's identity and is used to show belonging to a family. It helps us trace relationships and lineage within communities.