Cousin vs Relative

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

	Cousin	Relative
Meaning	The child of your aunt or uncle.	A person who is connected to you by blood or marriage, like a family member.
CEFR level	A1	B1
Part of speech	noun	adjective
Usage notes	Use 'cousin' when referring to family members who share grandparents but not parents. It's appropriate in both spoken and written contexts. In more formal discussions about family, you might specify 'first cousin' or 'second cousin'.	Use 'relative' to refer to family members in a general sense. In formal contexts, it's suitable to discuss familial connections; in informal settings, it's often used casually. Avoid using it for non-familial connections.

Frequently asked questions: Cousin vs Relative

What's the difference between "Cousin" and "Relative"?

"Cousin" means: The child of your aunt or uncle. "Relative" means: A person who is connected to you by blood or marriage, like a family member.

When should I use "Cousin" and "Relative"?

They can all be used in everyday English.

Are "Cousin" and "Relative" the same CEFR level?

"Cousin" is at A1, "Relative" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.