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    お手数ですが (o-tesū desu ga - Sorry to trouble you, but...)

    Grammar & Usage

    fixed expression
    polite, formal

    How it works

    This phrase is a polite opening used when making a request or asking someone to do something that might be inconvenient or require effort. 'お手数 (o-tesū)' means 'trouble' or 'bother', 'ですが (desu ga)' is a polite copula followed by the conjunctive particle 'が (ga)', meaning 'but' or 'although', implying that a request is coming despite the trouble. It softens the request and shows consideration for the other person's time or effort.

    Sample sentences

    お手数ですが、この書類にサインをお願いできますでしょうか。

    Sorry to trouble you, but could I ask you to sign this document?

    お手数ですが、メールをご確認いただけますでしょうか。

    Sorry to trouble you, but could you please check your email?

    大変お手数ですが、もう一度説明していただけませんか。

    I'm very sorry to trouble you, but could you please explain it one more time?

    Quick facts

    usage_context:Primarily used in business settings, formal communications, or when addressing superiors or strangers. It is crucial for maintaining harmonious social relations in Japanese culture when making requests.
    politeness_level:High. The 'お (o-)' prefix indicates honorific respect, and 'が (ga)' softens the subsequent request, making it indirect and polite.
    alternative_expressions:ご迷惑をおかけしますが (go-meiwaku o okake shimasu ga - I'm causing you inconvenience, but...)

    Mnemonic

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    Example

    お手数ですが、この書類にサインをお願いできますでしょうか。

    Sorry to trouble you, but could I ask you to sign this document?

    お手数ですが、メールをご確認いただけますでしょうか。

    Sorry to trouble you, but could you please check your email?

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