‘侄孙’ (zhí sūn) is a kinship term meaning ‘nephew’s son’ — that is, the son of one’s nephew. It literally combines ‘侄’ (zhí), meaning ‘nephew’ (a brother’s son), and ‘孙’ (sūn), meaning ‘grandson’. Though it contains ‘孙’, it does not refer to a direct descendant but rather a collateral relative: specifically, the grandson of one’s sibling through the sibling’s son. This term reflects Chinese family structure’s emphasis on precise generational and relational distinctions.

It is used formally or respectfully in speech and writing, especially when discussing family lineage, inheritance, or ceremonial roles. Unlike English ‘great-nephew’, which may be ambiguous or rarely used, ‘侄孙’ is unambiguous and common in contexts like family gatherings, genealogical records, or legal documents concerning heirs. The term assumes the speaker is at least two generations older than the person referred to and shares a paternal or maternal sibling connection with the nephew’s parent.