kin

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "kin" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used as a noun meaning family or relative. For example, "My kin has been living in this town for generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's likely that they are born with such tendencies, replicating what their kin have always done for generations.

The Guardian

"This psychiatrist and this next of kin," he said.

The Guardian

When I tell them I'd like to write about Carole, they pass me the telephone number, discovered in Carole's phone records, of the woman whose role in the tale is, they're convinced, both sinister and central: that of the "next of kin", Dr Fleur Fisher.

The Guardian

They were told the nameless "next of kin" had emptied Carole's flat and driven off in her car.

The Guardian

It's her: the next of kin; the woman who baffled me by abruptly – perhaps defensively – announcing: "I'm not a therapist!" It's Dr Fisher.

The Guardian

Fisher admits she had no legal claim to be Carole's "next of kin", but denies the Felsteads' accusations that she stole her property.

The Guardian

Most have refused the airline's initial compensation offer of $50,000 £32,1000) provided to next of kin, according to Malaysia's transport minister.

The Guardian

"Carole's next of kin told us there was no family.

The Guardian

Who was the mysterious caller who claimed to be Carole's "next of kin"?

The Guardian

"I'm Carole's next of kin".

The Guardian

But still, they are, officially, kin.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "kin" to refer to family members or relatives, especially when discussing ancestry, cultural heritage, or familial bonds. It adds a slightly formal or traditional tone to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "kin" to describe close friends or colleagues unless you are intentionally using it metaphorically to suggest a bond as strong as family.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "kin" is as a noun, referring to one's family or relatives. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it acts as the subject or object of a sentence, highlighting its role in describing familial relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "kin" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun referring to family or relatives. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid term found across various contexts, including News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science, with its primary function being to denote familial relationships. While "family" or "relatives" are more common in everyday conversation, "kin" adds a touch of formality and is particularly useful when discussing ancestry or cultural heritage. Key takeaways include understanding its scope (avoiding its use for non-family members) and appreciating its nuanced usage to enhance writing precision. Consider alternatives like "family members" or "blood relatives" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

family members

Refers specifically to those related by blood, marriage, or adoption, emphasizing a closer relationship than simply "kin".

blood relatives

Highlights the genetic connection between individuals, implying a shared ancestry.

next of kin

Indicates the closest living relatives, often with legal implications regarding inheritance or decision-making.

extended family

Encompasses relatives beyond the immediate family unit, such as aunts, uncles, and cousins.

ancestors

Focuses on those from whom one is descended, emphasizing a historical lineage.

descendants

Refers to those who come after in a family line, the opposite perspective of ancestors.

relations

A more general term for people connected by blood, marriage, or other ties.

kindred spirits

While "kin" refers to blood relations, "kindred spirits" signifies people with shared interests, attitudes, or feelings.

people

Denotes individuals connected by common origin, history, or culture.

community

Emphasizes a shared location, identity, or interest, indicating some degree of relationship between members.

FAQs

How can I use "kin" in a sentence?

"Kin" can be used to refer to family members or relatives collectively. For example, "He returned to his homeland to be with his kin."

What is a more common word for "kin"?

While "kin" is a valid term, "family" or "relatives" are more frequently used in modern English. You could also use "family members".

What does "next of kin" mean?

"Next of kin" refers to a person's closest living relative or relatives, who may have legal rights or responsibilities in certain situations. It is more specific than just "blood relatives".

When is it appropriate to use the word "kin"?

The term "kin" is suitable in formal contexts, when discussing ancestry or cultural heritage, or when you want to convey a sense of traditional family ties. In everyday conversation, "family" or "relations" may be more appropriate.