- A dated euphemism for being pregnant.
- Implies that pregnancy is a natural, albeit delicate, condition within the context of a family (or starting one).
Explanation
Origin
- Dates back to at least the 18th century.
- Reflects a time when direct discussion of pregnancy, especially outside of marriage, was considered indelicate or taboo in polite society. Family way suggests the expected path or condition related to family creation.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Standard:
- Pregnant
- Expecting
Slang/Informal:
- Preggers / Prego
- Knocked up
- Got a bun in the oven
- Up the duff (UK/Aus slang)
Formal/Archaic:
- With child
- Gravid (medical/biological term)
- Enceinte (French loanword, rare, formal)
Situational Appropriateness
- Very dated and old-fashioned. Using it today might sound quaint, overly euphemistic, or even slightly comical.
- Mostly encountered in historical literature, period dramas, or when used by much older generations.
- Stick to pregnant or expecting in modern conversation.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- A non-native speaker unfamiliar with the idiom might be completely confused, perhaps thinking it relates to family customs or behavior.
Examples
- I think Mrs. Peterson is in the family way again. (Sounds old-fashioned)
- She announced to her parents that she was in the family way.
- In those days, getting in the family way before marriage was a scandal.
Dialogue
Agnes: Have you seen young Elizabeth lately? She seems to be glowing.
Martha: (Lowering her voice slightly) Well, dear, I heard she's in the family way.
Agnes: Oh my! Already? They only just got married! Well, blessings to them.
Social Media Examples
- Unlikely to be used seriously on modern social media, except perhaps ironically or in discussions about historical language/culture.
- Example (ironic): Feeling bloated after lunch... guess I'm 'in the family way' with a food baby. 😂 #lol #oldfashioned
- Historical discussion: Reading a Jane Austen novel – so many euphemisms! 'In the family way' is a classic. #literature #history
Response Patterns
- Surprise: Oh, really?
- Confirmation: Yes, she's expecting in June.
- Congratulations (if appropriate): Oh, how wonderful!
- Questions about due date, well-being.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- When is the baby due?
- How is she feeling?
- Offering congratulations or support.
- Discussing the implications (especially if historical context or unmarried status is relevant).
Conversation Starter
- No. Used when sharing news or speculating about someone's condition, usually in private.
Intonation
- Often spoken in a slightly lowered voice or with a knowing, gentle tone, reflecting its euphemistic nature.
- Stress typically falls on family.
Generation Differences
- Primarily used or recognized by older generations (60+).
- Younger generations would find it archaic and indirect.
Regional Variations
- Historically used across English-speaking regions, particularly Britain and America. Its current usage is rare everywhere.