What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
famille
Example
The whole famille gathered for the holiday dinner. [famille: noun]
Example
She comes from a large famille with many cousins and aunts. [famille: noun]
tribe
Example
The Masai tribe is known for their distinctive clothing and customs. [tribe: noun]
Example
We are a tribe of artists who support each other's work. [tribe: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Famille is less commonly used in English than tribe. Famille is a French loanword that is used more frequently in French-speaking countries, while tribe is a more versatile word that is used in various contexts in English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between famille and tribe?
Famille is typically associated with a more formal tone, while tribe is more informal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
