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.
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.
Describe small amounts left behind after a process, like dregs, scraps, or remains.
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.
Technical term for residue or dregs, used in scientific or industrial contexts.
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.
Coffee grounds can be used as fertilizer.
この残渣は有害物質を含んでいる。
This residue contains harmful substances.
犬が置き去りにされていた。
A dog had been left behind.