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    大変申し訳ございません。 (I am extremely sorry.)

    Grammar & Usage

    fixed expression
    very formal, very polite, humble

    How it works

    This is a set phrase combining the adverb 大変 (taihen, 'very'/'extremely'), the noun 申し訳 (moushiwake, 'excuse'/'apology'), and the humble/polite negative form ございません (gozaimasen, 'it does not exist' / 'it is not'). The direct translation implies 'There is no excuse (for my actions)' or 'I have no apology (that would suffice),' effectively expressing deep regret.

    Sample sentences

    ご迷惑をおかけして、大変申し訳ございません。

    I am extremely sorry for causing you trouble.

    納期が遅れてしまい、大変申し訳ございませんでした。

    I was extremely sorry that the delivery was delayed.

    私の不注意でこのような事態を招き、大変申し訳ございません。

    I am extremely sorry for bringing about such a situation due to my carelessness.

    Quick facts

    politeness:This is a highly formal and humble expression used for serious apologies, business contexts, or when addressing superiors. It conveys a deep sense of regret and responsibility. It is much more formal than すみません (sumimasen) or ごめんなさい (gomen nasai).
    usageContext:Appropriate for apologizing for significant errors, inconveniences caused to others, or formal breaches of conduct. Often used in written apologies or formal verbal apologies.

    Mnemonic

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    Example

    ご迷惑をおかけして、大変申し訳ございません。

    I am extremely sorry for causing you trouble.

    納期が遅れてしまい、大変申し訳ございませんでした。

    I was extremely sorry that the delivery was delayed.

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