Patricia Grisafi
Whether or not you have a big family, there’s a chance you’ve come across the term “first cousin once removed” — and got completely confused. Luckily, one teacher on TikTok made a video breaking down what that really means.
Kevin Silberman, who teaches ninth grade, explained the term “first cousin once removed” in a pretty straightforward way, with a diagram and everything.
People must have been thrilled about the lesson because the video went viral. Silberman, who has been working in education for over 22 years, broke down the family tree and how it relates to cousins once, twice, and three times removed.
“My uncle’s son would be my first cousin,” Mr. Silberman said. “My first cousin’s son would be my first cousin, once removed. Removed means down by one generation.”
“If my first cousin once removed has a son, he would be my first cousin twice removed,” Mr. Silberman continued.
“Now, my first cousin’s son, and my son are second cousins. I hope that clears things up.”
Now, of course, if you want to continue calling everyone in your family your cousin regardless of this new information, go for it! There’s something to be said for simplicity.
Featured Image: TikTok
