Translation guide
Refers to things left behind, especially unwanted remnants like food scraps, leftovers, or residue. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 残り物 (leftovers), but other words apply depending on what is left and the context.
Express food or drink that remains after a meal, often implying it is unwanted or to be discarded.
Describe small amounts left behind after a process, like dregs, scraps, or remains.
Refer to items abandoned or forgotten by a person.
The English word 'leavings' is somewhat literary or old-fashioned. In most everyday situations, use 残り物 for food leftovers or 残り for general remnants. Direct translation as 'leavings' may sound unnatural in Japanese.
The most general term for leftovers, especially food. Can be neutral or slightly negative depending on context.
Please put the leftovers in the fridge.
I made lunch from the leftovers.
Specifically refers to food left uneaten on a plate, often implying waste or scraps.
Please don't throw away the uneaten food.
Leftover drink, often in a glass or bottle.
There was leftover coffee on the table.
General term for remainder or leftover of anything, not just food.
I threw away the coffee dregs.
Dregs, grounds, or lees; often used for coffee grounds, tea leaves, or sake lees.
Coffee grounds can be used as fertilizer.
Technical term for residue or dregs, used in scientific or industrial contexts.
This residue contains harmful substances.
Something left behind unintentionally, like a lost item.
I left something on the train.
Abandoned or left behind deliberately, often with a nuance of neglect.
A dog had been left behind.