“Family tree” in English is simply “family tree” — the term is the same in both languages. If you are asking how to say “family tree” in English from another language, the direct translation is “family tree,” and it refers to a diagram showing family relationships across generations.
What the Term Means
In English, a “family tree” is a visual representation of a person’s ancestry, showing how individuals are connected through blood, marriage, or adoption. The name comes from the tree-like structure: the oldest known ancestors are at the roots or trunk, and branches spread out to descendants. The term has been used in English since at least the 15th century, though the practice of drawing such charts is much older.
People use family trees for many reasons: genealogy research, school projects, medical history, or simply to preserve family stories. The phrase is also used metaphorically — for example, “the family tree of languages” shows how languages are related.
How to Say It in English
If you are translating the concept from another language, here are common equivalents:
- Spanish: árbol genealógico
- French: arbre généalogique
- German: Stammbaum (literally “tribe tree”)
- Italian: albero genealogico
- Portuguese: árvore genealógica
- Russian: генеалогическое древо (genealogicheskoye drevo)
In English, you might also hear “ancestry chart,” “pedigree chart,” or “genealogical chart,” but “family tree” is by far the most common and understood term.
How to Build a Family Tree
Creating a family tree can be done on paper, with software, or through online services. Here are the basic steps:
- Start with yourself and work backward. Write your name, then your parents, grandparents, and so on.
- Gather information from relatives, family Bibles, birth certificates, marriage licenses, and obituaries.
- Verify facts — dates and names can be misspelled or misremembered. Cross-check with official records when possible.
- Decide on a format: a simple chart, a detailed pedigree, or a narrative with photos.
- Use software or templates if you want to organize large amounts of data. Popular options include Ancestry, MyHeritage, and FamilySearch.
Remember that a family tree is rarely complete. You may hit “brick walls” where records are missing, especially for ancestors who lived before civil registration or in countries with lost archives.
Common Problems and Misconceptions
One common misconception is that a family tree must show only blood relatives. In fact, adopted children and step-relatives are often included, depending on the purpose. Another issue is that many people assume their surname is a reliable clue to ancestry — but surnames change due to marriage, immigration, and even deliberate alteration.
Another problem is the “pedigree collapse” effect: if ancestors intermarried (which was common in small communities), the same person may appear multiple times in your tree. This is not an error; it is a natural result of human history.
Also, be cautious of online family trees. Many contain unverified information copied from other users. Always look for primary sources, such as birth and death records, rather than relying solely on other people’s trees.
How to Choose a Family Tree Tool
If you want to build a digital family tree, you have several options:
- Free websites: FamilySearch and WikiTree are free and collaborative. FamilySearch is run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but is open to all; it has billions of records.
- Subscription services: Ancestry and MyHeritage offer vast databases but require a paid subscription for most features. They also provide DNA testing.
- Desktop software: Programs like Legacy Family Tree or Gramps (free) let you keep your data offline, which some people prefer for privacy.
Consider what you need: if you only want a simple chart, a free template might be enough. If you are doing serious research, a subscription service with record access is more useful. If you are worried about privacy, choose software that stores data locally.
Costs and Safety Considerations
Building a family tree can cost nothing if you use free resources, but professional genealogy research can be expensive. Subscription services typically cost $20–$40 per month, and DNA tests range from $60 to $200. Hiring a professional genealogist can cost $50–$150 per hour.
Safety is also important. When sharing your family tree online, be aware that personal information about living people (such as birth dates and addresses) can be misused. Most genealogy websites let you restrict information about living individuals. Never post sensitive data about living relatives without their consent.
Also, be cautious about DNA testing: your DNA reveals information not just about you but also about your biological relatives. Some people are surprised to discover unexpected relationships, such as half-siblings or different biological parents. Think carefully before taking a DNA test, and read the company’s privacy policy.
Family Trees in Mythology and Culture
Family trees are not just a modern hobby. Many mythologies include genealogies of gods and heroes. For example, in Greek mythology, Hesiod’s Theogony (c. 700 BCE) lists the lineage of the gods, starting with Chaos, then Gaia (Earth), and their descendants. The Norse Prose Edda and Poetic Edda include genealogies of the gods, such as Odin’s descent from Buri. In Hindu tradition, the Puranas contain detailed genealogies of dynasties and deities. These mythological family trees were used to explain the world and to legitimize rulers who claimed descent from gods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the English word for “family tree”?
The English word is “family tree.” It is a direct translation and is used in the same way as in other languages.
How do you say “family tree” in British English?
British English uses the same term: “family tree.” There is no difference between American and British English for this phrase.
Is a family tree the same as a pedigree?
Not exactly. A pedigree is a more formal chart showing direct ancestors (parents, grandparents, etc.) but usually does not include siblings or aunts/uncles. A family tree typically includes a wider range of relatives.
Can I include adopted relatives in a family tree?
Yes, you can. Many people include adopted children and step-relatives, especially if they are considered family. The tree should reflect your family as you define it.
What is the best free family tree website?
FamilySearch is widely considered the best free option because it offers access to billions of historical records and allows you to build a tree at no cost. WikiTree is also free and focuses on collaboration.
Why do some family trees show the same ancestor twice?
This happens when cousins marry or when there is intermarriage between branches. It is called pedigree collapse and is not an error — it is a historical reality.
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