父母

ふぼ

father and mother, parents

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Understanding 父母

The term 父母 (fùmǔ) refers collectively to one's father and mother, i.e., parents. It is a common and neutral word used in both formal and informal contexts.

Usage and Nuance

When you use 父母, you emphasize the parental role as a unit rather than focusing on father or mother individually. It often appears in contexts related to family, education, upbringing, and care.

Common Collocations

  • 父母 (fùmǔqīn): a more affectionate or respectful way to say parents.
  • 父母教育 (fùmǔ de jiàoyù): parents' education or upbringing.
  • 尊重父母 (zūnzhòng fùmǔ): to respect one's parents.

Tips

  • 父母 is often used when discussing responsibilities, feelings, or actions involving both parents.
  • Avoid confusing 父母 with (single parent) or 亲戚 (relatives).
  • When speaking about only father or mother, use 父亲 or 母亲 respectively.

Using 父母 correctly helps you talk naturally about family relationships and social expectations in Chinese.

Example Sentences

Parents attach great importance to their children's education.

I will go home to visit my parents this weekend.

My parents' opinions are very important to me.