Kinship: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'kinship' when talking about family ties or shared ancestry. It emphasizes a blood or family connection.

• The kinship between siblings was evident in their shared features.
• They felt a deep sense of kinship because they discovered they had common ancestors.

Use 'relationship' to describe the way in which two or more people or things are connected. It can be familial, romantic, professional, etc.

• They have a strong working relationship built on mutual respect.
• Their romantic relationship blossomed over the summer.

Use 'connection' to describe any link between people, ideas, or objects. It is a broader term that can be used in various contexts, from emotional to professional.

• There was an immediate connection between the new coworker and the team.
• They felt a connection over their shared love of music.

Use 'bond' to describe a strong connection that can be emotional, familial, or even created through shared experiences.

• The bond between the two friends grew stronger after they traveled together.
• There is a special bond between a mother and her child.

Used to describe relationships based on blood, marriage, or adoption, often emphasizing a sense of connection and bond within the group.

• The study focused on the kinship ties among the villagers.
• She felt a strong sense of kinship with her cousins despite the distance.

Refers to the composition and organization of a family unit, including nuclear families, extended families, single-parent families, and more, often used in social sciences and demographic studies.

• Modern family structures are more diverse than they were in the past.
• Researchers are examining the effects of different family structures on child development.

Often used in sociological or anthropological contexts to describe a traditional organizational structure where extended families, or clans, are the basic units, usually among indigenous or tribal communities.

• The clan system played a crucial role in the governance of the tribe.
• In some cultures, the clan system dictates social roles and responsibilities.

Used to trace ancestry or heritage, focusing on the historical or genealogical descent from a common ancestor. Particularly relevant in historical, genealogical, or cultural discussions.

• His lineage can be traced back to the royal family of medieval times.
• The museum displayed artifacts to illustrate the lineage of the indigenous people.

Used to describe a relationship or connection between people who are related by blood or marriage.

• She felt a deep kinship with her cousins
• There's a sense of kinship among the members of the clan

Describes a natural liking or attraction towards something or someone. It can refer to relationships or a pronounced similarity.

• He has an affinity for classical music
• They felt an immediate affinity towards each other

Refers to a strong connection, relationship, or link between people, often emotional or psychological. Can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

• The bond between mother and child is unbreakable
• They developed a bond after years of working together

Describes the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. Typically used in a positive, compassionate sense.

• She showed great empathy towards her friend's situation
• Empathy is key to building strong relationships