Translation guide
This guide covers natural Japanese ways to express the idea of 'getting rid of' something—discarding, disposing of, eliminating, or removing unwanted items, people, or abstract things. The focus is on common, practical expressions for English-speaking learners.
To throw away, dispose of, or get rid of tangible things like garbage, old clothes, or broken items.
The most common and general verb for 'throw away' or 'discard'. Used for physical objects you no longer need.
Can I throw away these old magazines?
More formal than 捨てる. Often used for disposing of large items, hazardous materials, or in official contexts.
Literally 'put out as trash'. Used for taking out the garbage on collection days.
Please put out burnable trash on Tuesdays.
To remove, eradicate, or get rid of abstract things like stress, insects, bad habits, or obstacles.
Transitive verb meaning 'to eliminate' or 'to get rid of'. Used for abstract things like noise, stress, or problems.
To dismiss someone from a job, end a relationship, or make someone leave.
Colloquial for 'fire' or 'sack' someone. Literally 'make into a neck', referring to beheading.
To get rid of something by selling it or giving it to someone else.
Simple verb for 'sell'. Use when you want to get rid of something by selling it.
捨てる is the everyday word for throwing things in the trash. 処分する is more formal and often implies proper disposal, especially for large or hazardous items. Use 捨てる for daily conversation, 処分する for official procedures.
Please throw away this letter.
Please throw out the trash tomorrow morning.
You need a reservation to dispose of large trash items.
Please tell me how to get rid of stress.
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Literally 'remove and eliminate'. Stronger than なくす, often for physical removal of obstacles or impurities.
I got rid of the weeds in the garden.
Specifically for exterminating pests, insects, or vermin.
I called a pest control company to get rid of the cockroaches.
He was fired because he was slow at work.
Formal term for 'dismiss' or 'discharge' from employment.
The company dismissed him.
Intransitive verb for 'break up' or 'separate' in a romantic relationship. To say 'get rid of a partner', use causative or other phrasing.
Not directly 'get rid of', but the natural way to express ending a relationship.
I want to break up with my girlfriend.
使わない家具をネットで売った。
I sold the furniture I don't use online.
To hand over, give away, or transfer ownership, often for free or at a low price.
I'm giving away this bicycle for free.
古いパソコンを処分する方法を調べています。
I'm looking into how to dispose of old computers.
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'get rid of'. Always choose the verb based on what you are getting rid of (object, person, problem, etc.). Using 捨てる for a person, for example, would be unnatural and rude.
To throw him away (literal, not recommended)