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    ご迷惑をおかけし、申し訳ございません。 (I apologize for the inconvenience.)

    Grammar & Usage

    fixed expression
    very formal, polite, business

    How it works

    This is a set phrase used to express a deep apology for causing trouble or inconvenience. It combines the honorific prefix ご (go) with 迷惑 (meiwaku, trouble/inconvenience), followed by the humble verb おかけする (okake suru, to cause) in its continuative/conjunction form し (shi), and the highly polite apology 申し訳ございません (mōshiwake gozaimasen). The structure emphasizes humility from the speaker and respect towards the listener.

    Sample sentences

    システム障害により、ご迷惑をおかけし、申し訳ございません。

    We apologize for the inconvenience caused by the system failure.

    交通機関の乱れで、到着が遅れましたこと、ご迷惑をおかけし、申し訳ございません。

    I apologize for the inconvenience caused by my late arrival due to public transport delays.

    急な変更で皆様にご迷惑をおかけし、申し訳ございません。

    We apologize for causing everyone inconvenience with the sudden change.

    Quick facts

    humility:The phrase employs humble language (謙譲語, kenjōgo) to lower the speaker's status and elevate the listener's, a key aspect of Japanese politeness.
    politeness:Extremely high level of politeness, suitable for formal business contexts, customer service, or public apologies.
    usageContext:Used when an action or situation has caused trouble, delay, or discomfort to others. It's not typically used for minor, trivial issues among close friends.

    Mnemonic

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    Example

    システム障害により、ご迷惑をおかけし、申し訳ございません。

    We apologize for the inconvenience caused by the system failure.

    交通機関の乱れで、到着が遅れましたこと、ご迷惑をおかけし、申し訳ございません。

    I apologize for the inconvenience caused by my late arrival due to public transport delays.

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