Translation guide
Staying in someone's home to look after it while they are away. Japanese does not have a single direct equivalent; learners should use descriptive phrases.
The general act of living temporarily in someone's home to keep it safe and maintained.
Literally 'to do house-sitting/caretaking'. A common, natural phrase for looking after a house while the owner is away. Can also be used for babysitting or pet-sitting in context.
友達の家で留守番をしています。
I'm house-sitting at my friend's place.
旅行中、隣の家の留守番を頼まれました。
While they were traveling, I was asked to house-sit for the neighbors.
Referring to the concept of house-sitting as a job, favor, or planned activity.
Loanword from English. Understood by some, especially in international contexts, but not as common as descriptive Japanese phrases.
ハウスシッティングの仕事を探しています。
I'm looking for house-sitting jobs.
There is no single Japanese word that directly translates 'house-sitting'. Avoid trying to combine 家 (house) and 座る (sit) literally; it will not be understood.
If you are house-sitting and also caring for pets or plants, you can specify: ペットの世話もする (also take care of pets) or 植物に水をやる (water the plants).
More explicitly 'to do house-sitting for a house'. Adds 家 (house) for clarity.
彼らが海外に行っている間、家の留守番をしています。
I'm house-sitting while they are abroad.
A slightly more formal phrase meaning 'to take charge of the house in someone's absence'. Implies responsibility.
ご主人が戻るまで、留守を預かります。
I'll look after the house until the owner returns.
Casual, literally 'to watch the house'. Can be used informally but is less specific than 留守番.
ちょっと家を見ててくれる？
Can you watch the house for a bit?
Literally 'house-sitting service'. Used for professional services, but may also refer to security or pet-sitting services.
長期旅行のため、留守番サービスを利用した。
For a long trip, I used a house-sitting service.