What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
kin
Example
My kin and I always get together for Thanksgiving dinner. [kin: noun]
Example
She is my kin, we share the same great-grandmother. [kin: noun]
Example
The tribe is made up of kin who have lived in this area for generations. [kin: noun]
clan
Example
The Scottish clan system was an important part of their history. [clan: noun]
Example
The gaming clan meets every week to play together. [clan: noun]
Example
The company has a strong clan culture where everyone supports each other. [clan: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Kin is less commonly used than clan in everyday language. Kin is more specific and limited to familial relationships, while clan can be used in a wider range of contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between kin and clan?
Kin is generally considered more formal than clan. Kin is often used in legal or official documents, while clan is more commonly used in informal settings.