genealogy
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genealogy
The systematic study of descent and family relationships; ancestry research.
Sie betreibt Genealogie, um mehr über die Geschichte ihrer Vorfahren zu erfahren.
She does genealogy to learn more about the history of her ancestors.
'Genealogie' (genealogy) is an international loanword from Greek. It consists of 'genea' (descent, lineage) and 'logos' (teaching, science). So it literally means 'the study of descent.'
Sein Hobby ist die Genealogie seiner Familie.
His hobby is the genealogy of his family.
The word 'Genealogie' (genealogy) is used mainly in formal, academic, or specialist contexts. In everyday language, the term 'Ahnenforschung' (ancestry research) is more common.
Der Historiker hielt einen Vortrag über die Genealogie europäischer Königshäuser.
The historian gave a lecture on the genealogy of European royal houses.
You can recognize the exact meaning from the verb: when it refers to the activity, people often say 'Genealogie betreiben' (to do genealogy). When the family tree itself is meant, it is often 'erforscht' (researched) or 'zurückverfolgt' (traced back).
Er betreibt seit Jahren Genealogie und hat viel über seine Wurzeln gelernt.
He has been doing genealogy for years and has learned a lot about his roots.
origin
'die Herkunft' and 'die Genealogie' can both have to do with a person's family and ancestors. However, 'Herkunft' is much more general: it can be meant geographically, socially, or in terms of family. 'Genealogie' is more precise and often more technical. It means genealogy or a family's family tree. The words can be confused when talking about roots or family. In everyday language, people are more likely to ask about a person's 'Herkunft'. 'Genealogie' fits when family lines, ancestors, or family trees are studied systematically.
Für ihre Genealogie sucht Maria alte Briefe und Geburtsurkunden.
For her genealogy, Maria looks for old letters and birth certificates.
In der Klasse sprechen die Schüler über ihre Herkunft.
In class, the students talk about their origins.