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留守
rusu
absence
彼は留守だったので、メモを残した。
He was absent, so I left a note.
formal
the state of not being at home or at one's usual place
留守中に泥棒が入った。
A burglar broke in while we were away.
留守の家に郵便物がたまっている。
Mail piles up at the house while it's unoccupied.
Often used with の (留守の) to modify nouns like 留守中 (while away), 留守番 (looking after the house).
literary
to neglect one's duties or responsibilities
彼は家庭を顧みず、仕事に没頭していた。
He neglected his family, devoting himself entirely to work.
Rare modern usage; primarily found in classical or literary contexts.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguish from 留守番
'留守' refers to the state of absence itself, while '留守番' (るすばん) means the act of staying behind to guard the house or the person doing so.
Gold Rule
Use の for modification
When '留守' modifies a noun (e.g., 留守の家), always use の. Do not use な or other particles.
Word Origin
From the verb 留める (とめる, 'to keep/hold') + 守る (まもる, 'to protect/watch over'). Originally meant 'to guard a place while the owner is away,' later generalized to 'absence.'
Usage Notes
Used for both short absences (e.g., shopping) and long-term unavailability (e.g., travel). Often paired with の to modify nouns (留守の家 = an empty house).
Word Breakdown
留
to keep/hold
root守
to protect/watch over
root和英辞典