Translation guide
A proverb-like expression meaning that what is left over or discarded can bring unexpected luck or benefit. In Japanese, this idea is expressed through several sayings and phrases that emphasize finding value in remnants or making the most of what remains.
残り物には福がある
There is fortune in leftovers (proverb)
To express the idea that leftover things can bring good fortune, similar to the English proverb.
A direct Japanese equivalent of the proverb, literally 'there is fortune in leftovers.' Commonly used to encourage not wasting food or to find value in what is left.
残り物には福があるから、昨日のカレーを食べよう。
There's fortune in leftovers, so let's eat yesterday's curry.
A variant using 余り物 (amari mono) instead of 残り物, with the same meaning. Slightly less common but still natural.
余り物には福があると言うし、残ったおかずも美味しくいただこう。
They say there's fortune in leftovers, so let's enjoy the remaining side dishes too.
To motivate someone to use or consume leftovers without waste.
A common expression meaning 'what a waste.' Often used to encourage using leftovers rather than throwing them away. It implies that discarding something usable is regrettable.
まだ食べられるのに捨てるなんてもったいない。
It's such a waste to throw it away when it's still edible.
Means 'to eat without leaving anything.' Encourages finishing all food, including leftovers.
残さず食べれば、福が来るよ。
If you eat everything without leaving any, good luck will come.
To express that something left over or discarded can turn out to be valuable or lucky.
A proverb meaning 'when one god throws away, another picks up.' It suggests that what one person discards may be valuable to another, similar to 'one man's trash is another man's treasure.'
捨てる神あれば拾う神ありで、彼が捨てたアイデアが大ヒットした。
As they say, when one god throws away, another picks up—the idea he discarded became a huge hit.
A more literal phrase meaning 'to gain fortune from leftovers.' Not a set phrase but understandable and used in contexts like finding a bargain or unexpected benefit.
セールの残り物で福を得た気分だ。
I feel like I got a lucky find from the sale leftovers.
The concept of 'mottainai' (a sense of regret over waste) is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. The proverb '残り物には福がある' reflects this value and is often used to encourage children to finish their food or to appreciate hand-me-downs.