Translation guide
How to express 'remains' in Japanese, covering physical remains (ruins, corpses, leftovers) and abstract remains (what is left behind).
Referring to the physical remains of buildings, structures, or civilizations.
The standard word for archaeological ruins or historical remains.
I went to see the Roman ruins.
Refers to abandoned, ruined buildings, often with a sense of desolation. More modern or recent ruins.
Those ruins used to be a hospital.
Wreckage, debris, or remains of something destroyed (e.g., a car, building).
The remains of the accident were scattered on the road.
Referring to a dead body or parts of it, often in formal or respectful contexts.
The standard, respectful term for a dead body, used in news and formal situations.
The remains were returned to the family.
Specifically cremated remains (ashes and bones).
A blunt, direct word for a dead body. Can be insensitive; use only in factual or forensic contexts.
Can sound cold or disrespectful. Prefer 遺体 in most situations.
Referring to food that is left uneaten.
Referring to things that remain after an event, such as memories, feelings, or traces.
Traces, vestiges, or lingering signs of something that is gone. Often used for seasons, past eras, or relationships.
You can still feel the remains of summer.
The remainder or what is left of something (time, money, etc.).
Legacy or inheritance, often used for cultural or historical remains.
遺跡 (iseki) is used for ancient or historical ruins, while 廃墟 (haikyo) refers to modern abandoned buildings. Use 遺跡 for archaeological sites and 廃墟 for derelict factories, hospitals, etc.
English 'remains' covers many concepts. Do not use a single Japanese word for all cases. Choose based on context: ruins, corpse, leftovers, etc.
We placed the remains in the grave.
死体はまだ見つかっていない。
The remains have not been found yet.
I made dinner from the leftovers.
人生の残りをどう過ごすか。
How to spend the remainder of one's life.
Protect cultural heritage.