"Favourite child" (common term) - a child that a parent prefers over their other children.

"Sibling rivalry" (noun) - the competition and argument among brothers and sisters.

• "Some sibling rivalry can be healthy, but it became toxic when I realised my brother was my parents' favourite child."

"Distant relative" (noun) - someone who is part of your family but not closely related.

This would imply extended family and usually it also implies you do not know them very well.

"Long-lost" (adjective) - a relation, friend, or object that you have not seen for a long time.

Although this is not in the definition, a reunion is supposed to be a happy occasion.

• "Our distant cousin tried to greet us like a long-lost brother. It was very awkward."

"Get along" or "get on" (phrasal verb) - to have a good relationship.

"Get along/on like a house on fire" (informal idiom) - people who like each other very much and become friends very quickly.

• "I'd like to get along with my in-laws like a house on fire but the truth is that I don't really get along with them at all."

"Close" (adjective) - (of family) an immediate family member, or people who like each other and know each other very well.

For me, a "close relative" kind of implies both.

"Close-knit" or "tight-knit" (adjective) - (of family, community or social groups) bound together by strong relationships and common interests.

• "I come from a pretty close-knit family. We don't really keep secrets from each other."

"Supportive" (adjective) - to give help and encouragement.

• "My parents have been surprisingly supportive of my decision to pursue my career."

"Loved one(s)" (noun) - people you love, usually family members.

• "It's important to have the support of your loved ones."

"Respect" (verb, noun)

 - (of family) Politeness, honour, and care shown towards someone or something that is considered important

 - Admiration felt or shown for someone or something that you believe has good qualities or ideas.

"Admire" (verb) - respect and approve of someone or their behaviour.

"Look up to" (somebody) (phrasal verb) - admire and respect someone.

Usually "look up to" is used to refer to someone younger looking up to someone older.

"Admire" or "Respect"

 

"Admire" and "respect" are synonyms but there are subtle differences.

 

"Respect" is usually toward someone, and is more of an attitude that includes high regard, good opinion and honour. You could respect someone without agreeing with, liking or admiring them.

"Admire" can be used toward someone or something, and is more of a positive emotion that includes wonder and approval. You can admire but cannot respect a piece of artwork. To me, it would also be difficult to admire someone without also respecting them on some level.

 

• "Sure they don't always make great role models, but it's important to treat your parents and elders with respect."

• "He's always looked up to his dad. He really admires how he has constantly worked hard to provide for his family even through difficult times."

 

"Fall out" (phrasal verb) - have an argument or disagreement that ends the relationship. 

"Falling-out" (informal noun)

• "My uncle had a falling-out with our grandfather years ago and we haven't seen him since."

"Put up with (somebody/something)" (phrasal verb) -to be willing to accept someone or something that is unpleasant or not desirable.

• "I have to put up with my uncle every Christmas dinner. I mean, blood is thicker than water and all that."