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    お忙しい中 (o-isogashii naka - Amidst your busy schedule...)

    Grammar & Usage

    fixed expression
    formal, polite

    How it works

    This phrase combines the honorific prefix お (o-) with the i-adjective 忙しい (isogashii - busy) in its polite form, followed by 中 (naka - literally 'inside' or 'middle'). Here, 中 functions as a temporal noun indicating 'while' or 'during a period', implying 'amidst' or 'despite' someone's busy schedule. It is used as a polite opening when requesting something or expressing gratitude.

    Sample sentences

    お忙しい中恐縮ですが、少々お時間をいただけますでしょうか。

    I apologize for disturbing you amidst your busy schedule, but could you spare a little time?

    お忙しい中、ご出席いただき誠にありがとうございます。

    Thank you very much for attending despite your busy schedule.

    お忙しい中、迅速にご対応いただき助かりました。

    I appreciate your prompt response despite your busy schedule; it was very helpful.

    Quick facts

    politeness:Highly polite and deferential, used to show consideration for the listener's time and schedule. The お is an honorific prefix, and the construction itself emphasizes respect.
    usageContext:Commonly used in business settings, formal requests, emails, or when starting a conversation where you might be imposing on someone's time.

    Mnemonic

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    Example

    お忙しい中恐縮ですが、少々お時間をいただけますでしょうか。

    I apologize for disturbing you amidst your busy schedule, but could you spare a little time?

    お忙しい中、ご出席いただき誠にありがとうございます。

    Thank you very much for attending despite your busy schedule.

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