嗣子

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: The spelling is 嗣子, read しし, and it combines 嗣, meaning inherit or continue a line, with 子, meaning child.
• Basic usage: 嗣子 is a formal term for a child or successor designated to inherit a family line, rank, or estate.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• A designated successor rather than any child
  • Both examples use the form 嗣子. It emphasizes the particular heir expected to continue a lord's or king's line and position, not children in general.
• A name in old records and an unnamed royal successor
  • 古い記録には領主の嗣子の名が残されている。 — Old records preserve the name of the lord's heir.
  • 物語の王は嗣子を定めないまま病に倒れた。 — The king in the story fell ill without naming a successor.