Translation guide
To throw something away because it is no longer useful or wanted. In Japanese, the most common word is 捨てる, but there are other words for specific contexts like disposing of large items, abandoning plans, or discarding in games.
To put something in the trash or get rid of it because it is no longer needed.
The most common and versatile word for 'discard' or 'throw away'. Used for physical objects, ideas, and habits.
古い新聞を捨てた。
I discarded the old newspapers.
悪い習慣は捨てるべきだ。
You should discard bad habits.
More formal than 捨てる. Often used for disposing of items properly, especially large or regulated items.
粗大ゴミを処分する。
Dispose of bulky waste.
Formal term for discarding, often used in legal, business, or environmental contexts.
産業廃棄物を廃棄する。
Discard industrial waste.
To remove a card from your hand or a piece from the board in a game.
Used in card games and board games for discarding a card or piece.
いらないカードを捨てる。
Discard unwanted cards.
Common in mahjong and some card games for discarding a tile or card.
麻雀で牌を切る。
Discard a tile in mahjong.
To give up on a plan, proposal, or idea.
Can be used metaphorically for abandoning plans or ideas.
その計画は捨てたほうがいい。
We should discard that plan.
Means to give up or abandon an intention, often after consideration.
旅行を断念した。
I abandoned the trip.
Formal term for abandoning rights, claims, or responsibilities.
権利を放棄する。
Discard one's rights.
To delete or remove digital information.
Standard term for deleting files, emails, or data.
不要なファイルを削除する。
Discard unnecessary files.
Informal, often used for moving files to the trash/recycle bin.
そのメールを捨ててください。
Please discard that email.
捨てる is the everyday word for throwing things away. 処分する is more formal and implies proper disposal, often used for large items or when following rules. 廃棄する is technical and used in legal or environmental contexts.
While 捨てる can be used metaphorically for abandoning people, it is very strong and negative. Use 見捨てる (to abandon/desert) or 置き去りにする (to leave behind) instead.
彼は家族を見捨てた。
He abandoned his family.