DNA results show that Elizabeth could be your 2nd cousin 2x removed...

You have a DNA suggestion on a relationship, but what does it all mean?

Understanding family relationships can be complex, especially when encountering terms like "second cousin" and "removed." This post aims to clarify these terms and help you visualise connections.

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What Is a Second Cousin?

A second cousin is defined as an individual who shares the same great-grandparents as you do but does not share the same grandparents.

In simpler terms, your parents' first cousins' children are your second cousins. This means you and your second cousins are in the same generation, connected through your respective grandparents' siblings.

Breakdown:

• Your grandparent and your second cousin's grandparent are siblings.

• Their children (your parents and your second cousin's parents) are first cousins.

• You and your second cousin are the children of those first cousins.

This means you share the same set of great-grandparents.

Illustrative Example:

Consider your maternal grandmother: if she has a sibling (your great-uncle), and he has children, those children are your second cousins. This is because you and they share a pair of great-grandparents—your grandmother and your Grand-uncle's parents.

Decoding "Once Removed"

The term "removed" in cousin relationships indicates a generational difference. "Once removed" means there is a one-generation gap between you and the cousin.

Examples:

• Your mother's first cousin is your first cousin once removed.

• Your first cousin's child is also your first cousin once removed.

  
  

The "once removed" shows that you are not the same generation as your great-grandparents.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions about family relationships or need assistance with genealogical research!