儿女

儿女 (ér nǚ) is a term used to refer to children, typically in a general or familial context. It is often used to describe the relationship between parents and their offspring, emphasizing the emotional and cultural bond between them.

The character 儿 (ér) originally meant 'son' but has evolved to mean 'child' in modern usage. The character 女 (nǚ) means 'daughter.' Together, they form a term that includes both sons and daughters, making it more inclusive than using just one gender-specific term.

In Chinese culture, 儿女 are seen as the continuation of family lineage and the responsibility of parents. Phrases like “养儿防老” (yǎng ér fáng lǎo), meaning