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    恐縮ですが、少々お時間をいただけますでしょうか。

    Grammar & Usage

    fixed expression
    formal / business keigo

    How it works

    This is a standard polite cushion phrase combined with an indirect request in business Japanese. It begins with '恐縮ですが' (I feel humbled/sorry to trouble you, but...) to soften the impact before asking for the listener's time. The request utilizes the humble potential verb 'いただけます' (can I receive) combined with 'でしょうか' to form an extremely respectful and non-imposing inquiry.

    Sample sentences

    恐縮ですが、少々お時間をいただけますでしょうか。企画書の件でご相談がございます。

    Excuse me, but could you spare a moment? I would like to consult with you regarding the proposal.

    お忙しいところ大変恐縮ですが、少々お時間をいただけますでしょうか。

    I am very sorry to trouble you while you are busy, but would you happen to have a few minutes?

    恐縮ですが、少々お時間をいただけますでしょうか。先ほど届いたメールについて確認したい点がございます。

    Pardon me, but could you give me a moment of your time? There are a few points I would like to confirm regarding the email that just arrived.

    Quick facts

    kanji_breakdown:恐縮 (embarrassed/indebted/sorry) + 少々 (a little/a moment) + 時間 (time)
    pragmatic_function:クッション言葉 (cushion phrase) used to initiate an unscheduled consultation or conversation without sounding demanding
    keigo_classification:Combines Kenjōgo (謙譲語 - humble: いただく), Bikago/Sonkeigo (美化語 - polite prefix: お時間), and Teineigo (丁寧語 - polite: です, ます, でしょうか)

    Mnemonic

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    Example

    恐縮ですが、少々お時間をいただけますでしょうか。企画書の件でご相談がございます。

    Excuse me, but could you spare a moment? I would like to consult with you regarding the proposal.

    お忙しいところ大変恐縮ですが、少々お時間をいただけますでしょうか。

    I am very sorry to trouble you while you are busy, but would you happen to have a few minutes?

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