Core Meaning and Usage
The character 家 (jiā) primarily means "home" or "family." It is used to refer to one's physical house or the concept of family and household. For example, when someone says 回家 (huí jiā), it means "go home."
Extended Uses and Collocations
Besides meaning "home," 家 also refers to a family lineage or clan, especially in formal or literary contexts. For example, 艺术家家族 (yìshùjiā jiāzú) means "artist family/clan."
Additionally, 家 is used as a measure word for businesses or establishments, such as restaurants or companies. For example, 这家餐厅 (zhè jiā cāntīng) means "this restaurant." This usage is very common in everyday speech.
Common Collocations
- 回家 (huí jiā): to go home
- 家庭 (jiātíng): family, household
- 家人 (jiārén): family members
- 这家 (zhè jiā): this (business/establishment)
Usage Notes
When using 家 to mean "home," it often implies a place of comfort and belonging. When used as a measure word for businesses, it is always placed before the noun, e.g., 一家医院 (yī jiā yīyuàn) "a hospital."
Avoid confusing 家 with 家伙 (jiāhuo), which colloquially means "guy" or "fellow," a different usage altogether.