控える

控える

To refrain, hold back, or reserve.

Here, '控える' is used in the sense of refraining or restraining oneself from doing something, which is reflected in the context of cutting back on play to prepare for exams.

試験があるので、遊びを控えています。

I am refraining from playing around because I have exams.

In this context, '控える' indicates writing down or recording important information for reference.

大事な会議の日程を手帳に控えた。

I noted down the schedule of the important meeting in my diary.

'控える' here conveys the sense of someone being in a designated location, such as a waiting room, often to await their turn or an event.

彼は控え室で待っています。

He is waiting in the waiting room.