Offline mode

お忙しい中、大変恐縮ですが

Grammar & Usage

fixed expression

formal

How it works

This phrase is a highly polite and deferential opening when making a request or asking a favor of someone who is perceived to be busy. It combines a respectful reference to their busy state (お忙しい中, o-isogashii naka) with an expression of deep apology or humility (大変恐縮ですが, taihen kyōshuku desu ga), often implying a burden. The 'が' (ga) serves as a soft conjunction, leading into the main request.

Sample sentences

お忙しい中、大変恐縮ですが、明日の会議についてご確認いただけますでしょうか。

I apologize for troubling you during your busy schedule, but could you please confirm tomorrow's meeting?

お忙しい中、大変恐縮ですが、少しお時間をいただけますでしょうか。

I apologize for troubling you during your busy schedule, but could I have a little bit of your time?

お忙しい中、大変恐縮ですが、この件に関してご意見を伺ってもよろしいでしょうか。

I apologize for troubling you during your busy schedule, but would it be alright if I asked for your opinion on this matter?

Quick facts

breakdown:お忙しい (o-isogashii) is the honorific form of 'busy'; 中 (naka) means 'in the midst of'; 大変 (taihen) means 'very' or 'extremely'; 恐縮 (kyōshuku) means 'feeling obliged' or 'feeling awkward/apologetic'; ですが (desu ga) is a polite 'is, but...'

politeness:Highly polite and deferential. Used to soften requests and show consideration for the other person's time and effort.

usage_context:Commonly used in business emails, formal spoken interactions, or when approaching a superior or someone of higher status. It acknowledges potential inconvenience before making a request.

Often used with

Mnemonic

Get an AI-generated memory hook for お忙しい中、大変恐縮ですが — a vivid scene that locks the word in your brain 🧠

Example

お忙しい中、大変恐縮ですが、明日の会議についてご確認いただけますでしょうか。

I apologize for troubling you during your busy schedule, but could you please confirm tomorrow's meeting?

お忙しい中、大変恐縮ですが、少しお時間をいただけますでしょうか。

I apologize for troubling you during your busy schedule, but could I have a little bit of your time?