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家訓
kakun
family precepts
この家の家訓は「正直者が馬鹿を見る時代ではない」だ。
The family precept of this household is 'This is not an era where honest people get taken advantage of.'
formal
Rules or principles traditionally passed down in a family to guide behavior and moral conduct.
先祖代々の家訓を守り、真面目に働くことが我が家の伝統です。
Upholding the ancestral family precepts and working diligently is the tradition of our household.
彼の家訓は「他人を思いやれ」というシンプルなものだ。
His family precept is a simple one: 'Be considerate of others.'
家訓 often reflects cultural values like filial piety, honesty, or perseverance. It may be written or oral, and is typically associated with Confucian or samurai-era traditions.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguish from 家憲
家憲 (かけん) refers to a formal family constitution or charter, often written and legally binding, while 家訓 is more about moral or behavioral teachings passed down orally or through example.
Gold Rule
Contextual usage
家訓 is typically used in serious or formal contexts (e.g., historical texts, family ceremonies). In casual speech, it may sound archaic or overly formal.
Word Origin
Composed of 家 (house, family) and 訓 (precept, teaching), reflecting the idea of 'teachings for the household.' The term dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868), influenced by Confucian ethics and samurai bushido codes.
Usage Notes
家訓 is often used in contexts emphasizing tradition, discipline, or moral guidance. It may appear in literature, historical records, or modern discussions about family values. Avoid confusing it with 家業 (family business) or 家系 (family lineage).
Word Breakdown
家
house, family
root訓
precept, teaching
root和英辞典