Translation guide
The English verb 'save' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: rescuing, setting aside for later, preventing waste, and in computing. Each meaning has its own natural Japanese expressions.
To rescue someone or something from harm, danger, or a difficult situation.
The most common and general verb for 'save' in the sense of rescuing or helping someone out of trouble.
The firefighters saved the family from the fire.
I want to help my friends when they're in trouble.
Often used for saving lives, souls, or in a more dramatic or literary sense. Can imply salvation.
The doctor saved the patient's life.
His words saved me.
Formal term for rescue operations, often used in news or official contexts.
They rescued a person who was drowning in the sea.
To keep something for future use, such as money, time, or food.
The most natural way to say 'save something for later'. Used for concrete items like food, seats, or money.
Let's save this cake for tomorrow.
Specifically for saving money in a bank or as savings.
I save a little money every month.
Means to economize or save by cutting back on expenses. Often used for money, time, or energy.
To leave something remaining or not use it all, often for food or tasks.
Save a little for tomorrow.
To avoid wasting time, money, effort, or resources.
To store a file or data on a computer or device.
In sports like soccer or hockey, to stop the ball or puck from entering the goal.
助ける is the everyday word for helping or rescuing someone from trouble. 救う is more dramatic, often used for saving lives, souls, or in a spiritual sense. Use 助ける for most situations.
He helped me out.
That story saved my soul.
セーブする is only for computing or sports. Using it for saving money or time sounds unnatural. Use 貯金する or 節約する instead.
Save me!
I'm saving money for a new car.
Save your work before you shut down.
Could you save a seat for me?
I turned off the air conditioner to save on electricity costs.
Save unnecessary effort.
He saved the goal.