Language/Basque/Vocabulary/Family-Members

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BasqueVocabulary0 to A1 Course → Family and Relationships → Family Members

Introduction[edit | edit source]

In this lesson, we will explore the vocabulary related to family members in Basque. Family is an essential aspect of Basque culture, and understanding these terms will greatly enhance your ability to communicate with native speakers. We will cover a wide range of family members, from immediate family to extended relatives. By the end of this lesson, you will be able to confidently identify and address different family members in Basque.

Immediate Family[edit | edit source]

Let's start by learning the names of immediate family members in Basque. These are the people who are closest to us and play a significant role in our lives.

Parents[edit | edit source]

In Basque, "parents" can be referred to as "gurasoak." Here are the specific terms for mother and father:

  • Aita - Father
  • Ama - Mother

Basque culture places a strong emphasis on family, and parents are highly respected. It is common for children to address their parents using these terms, especially when speaking formally or in public.

Siblings[edit | edit source]

Siblings are an important part of our lives, and Basque has specific terms for brothers and sisters. Here are the words for siblings:

  • Ana - Sister
  • Aita - Brother

Ana and aita are used to refer to both older and younger siblings. For example, "ana handi" means "big sister," while "aita txiki" means "little brother."

Children[edit | edit source]

Children bring joy and happiness to families, and it's essential to know how to refer to them in Basque. Here are the words for children:

  • Semea - Son
  • Alaba - Daughter

When talking about multiple sons or daughters, the words "semeak" and "alabak" are used.

Extended Family[edit | edit source]

In addition to immediate family members, Basque has specific terms for extended family members. These relatives play a significant role in Basque culture and often have close-knit relationships.

Grandparents[edit | edit source]

Grandparents hold a special place in the heart of every family. In Basque, we have specific words to refer to them:

  • Aitona - Grandfather
  • Amona - Grandmother

It is common for grandchildren to address their grandparents using these terms. They are also used when talking about grandparents in general.

Aunts and Uncles[edit | edit source]

Aunts and uncles are an important part of the extended family. In Basque, we have distinct terms for maternal and paternal aunts and uncles:

  • Amatxi - Aunt (maternal)
  • Aitxitxe - Uncle (maternal)
  • Osaba - Uncle (paternal)

The terms "amatxi" and "aitxitxe" are used specifically for aunts and uncles on the mother's side, while "osaba" refers to uncles on the father's side. It is common to address aunts and uncles using these terms, especially in formal settings.

Cousins[edit | edit source]

Cousins are often close friends and playmates growing up. In Basque, we have specific terms for male and female cousins:

  • Lehenbizi - Male cousin
  • Lehenbiziko - Female cousin

When talking about multiple cousins, the words "lehendabizikoak" and "lehendabizikoak" are used.

Cultural Insights[edit | edit source]

Basque culture places a strong emphasis on family and kinship. Family members, both immediate and extended, play a significant role in daily life and social interactions. Basque people have a deep sense of pride in their family heritage and often gather for special occasions and celebrations.

It's important to note that Basque culture strongly values respect and formality when addressing family members. Using the appropriate terms, such as "aita" and "ama" for parents, shows respect and acknowledges their role in the family unit.

Historically, Basque society was organized into extended family networks known as "lineages" or "egitasmoak." These lineages played a crucial role in social, economic, and political life. While the structure of these lineages has evolved over time, the importance of family connections remains a fundamental aspect of Basque culture.

Practice Exercises[edit | edit source]

Now it's time to practice what you've learned! Use the vocabulary you have acquired to complete the following exercises:

Exercise 1: Match the Basque term with its English translation.

Basque English
Aita Brother
Ana Daughter
Aitona Grandfather
Amatxi Aunt (maternal)
Semea Son

Exercise 1 Solution:

Basque English
Aita Father
Ana Sister
Aitona Grandfather
Amatxi Aunt (maternal)
Semea Son

Exercise 2: Fill in the blanks with the appropriate Basque term.

  • "Nire ___________ oso polita da." (My sister is very beautiful.)
  • "___________ zure ___________?" (Who is your grandfather?)
  • "___________ eta ___________ nire ___________ dira." (My parents and siblings are coming.)
  • "___________ ___________ nire ___________ dira." (My aunts and uncles are here.)

Exercise 2 Solution:

  • "Nire ana oso polita da." (My sister is very beautiful.)
  • "Nork da zure aitona?" (Who is your grandfather?)
  • "Gurasoak eta ana nire etxean dira." (My parents and siblings are coming.)
  • "Amatxiak eta aitxitxeak nire etxean dira." (My aunts and uncles are here.)

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Congratulations! You have successfully learned the vocabulary related to family members in Basque. Family plays a vital role in Basque culture and society, and understanding these terms will greatly enhance your ability to communicate with native speakers. Remember to use the appropriate terms when addressing family members to show respect and acknowledge their role in the family unit. Keep practicing and incorporating these words into your daily conversations to solidify your understanding. Zorte on! (Good luck!)

Table of Contents - Basque Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Introduction to Basque Language


Greetings and Introductions


Nouns and Articles


Numbers and Counting


Pronouns and Verb Conjugation


Days, Months, and Seasons


Questions and Negation


Family and Relationships


Adjectives and Adverbs


Food and Dining


Prepositions and Conjunctions


Travel and Transportation


Basque Culture and Traditions


Sources[edit | edit source]


Other Lessons[edit | edit source]



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