The term "fern family" can be replaced with a number of different synonyms depending on the context of the sentence. Some possible alternatives include "pteridophyte family," which refers to the larger group of vascular plants that includes ferns, as well as horsetails and clubmosses. Another option is to use the specific name of the family being referred to, such as "Polypodiaceae" or "Dryopteridaceae." It's important to note that not all ferns belong to the same family and there are many different families within the larger group of pteridophytes. Other synonyms may include terms like "fern taxa" or "ferns and allies," which are broader terms that encompass a wider range of plants.