Learn Basic Family English Words (Pre-A1 Vocabulary) — Pre-A1 English vocabulary lesson by Langcom

Learn Basic Family English Words (Pre-A1 Vocabulary)

Raúl Maguiña

Langcom Founder | Cambridge and SIELE Examiner

July 14, 2026

PRE-A1📚 Vocabulary⏱️ 3 min read
Learning basic family words in English helps you talk about the people you love and share important information about your life. These words are fundamental for everyday conversations and for making new friends. You will learn how to say mum, dad, sister, brother, and other key family members. Understanding these simple words is the first and most important step to describing your family in English. We will explore common terms for your immediate family, like parents and siblings, and also for your extended family, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. This essential vocabulary is perfect for Pre-A1 learners, helping you build a strong foundation in English. Start practicing these words today so you can confidently introduce your family to others.

What is a family?

A family is a group of people connected by love or blood.

  • You can talk about your family using simple English words.
  • Let’s learn some of these words.

🎓 Learn English with the Blended method

Small groups · 24/7 AI Tutor · Cambridge preparation

Plans from $39 $79 per month

Reserve your class

Who are your parents?

Your parents are your mother and father.

In English, we often use shorter, informal words:

  • Mum (for mother)
  • Dad (for father)

For example:

  • My mum is happy.
  • My dad is tall.

Do you have brothers or sisters?

Your brothers and sisters are your siblings.

  • If you have a boy, he is your brother.
  • If you have a girl, she is your sister.

For example:

  • I have one brother.
  • She has two sisters.

Who are your grandparents?

Your grandparents are your mum’s or dad’s parents.

We use these words for grandparents:

  • Granny or Grandma (for grandmother)
  • Granddad or Grandpa (for grandfather)

For example:

  • My granny is old.
  • My granddad tells stories.

What about aunts, uncles, and cousins?

These are other important family members.

  • Your aunt is your mum’s or dad’s sister.
  • Your uncle is your mum’s or dad’s brother.
  • Your cousin is the child of your aunt or uncle.

For example:

  • My aunt lives in London.
  • My uncle likes sports.
  • My cousin is my friend.
Basic Family Vocabulary
English Word Who is this person?
Mum Your mother (female parent)
Dad Your father (male parent)
Sister A girl who has the same parents as you
Brother A boy who has the same parents as you
Granny Your mother’s or father’s mother
Granddad Your mother’s or father’s father
Aunt Your mum’s or dad’s sister
Uncle Your mum’s or dad’s brother
Cousin The child of your aunt or uncle

Examples

  • This is my family.
  • My mum is a teacher.
  • My dad likes to read.
  • I have one brother and one sister.
  • My granny visits every Sunday.
  • My granddad has a big garden.
  • My aunt and uncle have two children.
  • My cousin is very funny.

Practice

💬 Need personalized guidance?

As an Authorized Cambridge Preparation Centre, we can guide you to the right course and certification. Chat with our advisors today.

Chat with an Advisor on WhatsApp

Common mistakes for Spanish speakers

  • Confusing mum and dad: Remember mum is female, dad is male.
  • Using “my family are” instead of “my family is”: In English, family is usually singular when talking about the group. Say: My family is big. (NOT My family are big.)
  • Forgetting “a” or “an” with singular nouns: Say: I have a sister. (NOT I have sister.)

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between mum and mother?

Mum is an informal word for mother. Both mean the same person. You can use mum with your family and friends.

How do I say “my parents” in English?

You say my parents. This word means both your mum and dad together.

Can I use grandma instead of granny?

Yes, both grandma and granny are common informal words for grandmother. Choose the one you like best!

About the Author: Raúl Maguiña

Raúl Maguiña is the Director of Asociación Educativa Langcom, an Authorized Cambridge English Preparation Centre in USA. With over a decade of experience in language education and international certification, he has helped thousands of students, teachers and educational institutions across 25 countries achieve Cambridge, IELTS, TOEFL, and Michigan English certifications.

Learn more about Langcom →

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Request more information

If you have any further questions, we're here to help.

Whatsapp