放置する

• Reading: ほうちする
• Romaji: houchi suru
• Kanji breakdown: 放 (hou) — release, leave; 置 (chi) — place, put
• Pronunciation: /hoː.tɕi.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To leave alone; to abandon or neglect something without taking action.

A Group 3 (suru) compound verb combining 放置 (leaving alone/neglect) with する. Used for deliberately ignoring problems, leaving objects unattended, or neglecting responsibilities. Common in everyday life (放置自転車, abandoned bicycles) and problem-solving discussions. Carries a negative connotation of irresponsibility.

Examples

1. 問題を放置すると悪化する可能性がある。 If you leave a problem unattended, it may get worse.
2. 駅前に放置された自転車が撤去された。 Abandoned bicycles in front of the station were removed.
3. けがを放置せずにすぐ病院に行くべきだ。 You should go to the hospital right away instead of ignoring an injury.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, problem-solving, health, urban issues

Tone: cautionary

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 放 (hou, to release/leave) + 置 (chi, to place/put). Literally 'to leave something placed,' describing the act of abandoning something where it is without intervention.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal