1.
untouched; not yet started; left as is
Describes something that has not been worked on, dealt with, or modified. Implies that no action has been taken on something that probably should be addressed.
Literally 'without a hand being applied' — nothing has been done to the thing in question. Often carries an implication of neglect or procrastination.
Common collocations
- 手付かずのまま — left untouched
- 手付かずの状態 — in an untouched state
- 手付かずの自然 — untouched nature, pristine wilderness
Usage
Used as a の-adjective before nouns (手付かずの仕事) or as a predicate (手付かずだ). The expression 手付かずの自然 (pristine nature) is a positive use, but in most contexts the word implies something that should have been dealt with.
Similar words
- 未着手 — not yet begun (more formal/business-oriented)
- そのまま — as it is, unchanged (neutral; 手付かず specifically implies no work has been done)