Family v.s. a family

Question

Hi,Of the two wordings below which one is correct? If they are both correct, then is there any clear-cut difference between them?1. I have a family2. I have familyWhat about these two wordings:3. I have a family of two4. I have family of twoThanks in advance !

Soka · Accepted Answer

I think they are correct ..

MrPernickety. I have a family of two

MrPernickety1. I have a family

MrPernickety · Answer

Thanks, but it would be better if a native speaker chimed in with an opinion.

Could anyone help me with my question, please?

Clive · Answer

Hi,

Of the two wordings below which one is correct? If they are both correct, then is there any clear-cut difference between them?

1. I have a family

If an adult tells me this, I will assume thay are referring to a spouse and at least one child.

I wouldn't expect a child to say this, as one usually assumes that a child has a family, ie at least one parent.

2. I have family

If an adult tells me this, it sounds like they are talking about relatives who are not their spouse otr child.

It would usually be in a sentence like 'I live here in Toronto but I have family in Montreal.

If a child says it, again I will assume that they are talking about relatives other than arentsor siblings.

What about these two wordings:

3. I have a family of two

Not a very natural thing to say. More natural is something like 'I have a wife and child'.

4. I have family of two

Not a natural thing to say.

Best wishes, Clive

MrPernickety · Answer

Thank you, Clive !

Now the difference is clear as day to me !

Family v.s. a family

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