意味
A polite phrase used when asking a favor or being grateful/apologetic.
文化的背景
In Japan, 'Cushion Phrases' (Kushon Kotoba) are essential. They prevent the speaker from appearing too direct or aggressive. '{恐|おそ}れ{入|い}ります' is the king of these phrases. The 'Osore' in the phrase reflects a historical consciousness where social superiors were treated with a level of respect bordering on religious awe. Staff in high-end Japanese stores are trained to use this phrase instead of 'Sumimasen' to create a more 'premium' and respectful atmosphere. Japanese culture values 'lowering' oneself. By saying you are 'fearful/overwhelmed,' you are effectively raising the other person's status.
The 'Ga' Connection
90% of the time you use this to ask for something, add 'ga' at the end. It's the magic word for 'but...'
Don't Overdo It
If you use it every sentence, you'll sound like a robot or a sarcastic person. Save it for the 'big' polite moments.
意味
A polite phrase used when asking a favor or being grateful/apologetic.
The 'Ga' Connection
90% of the time you use this to ask for something, add 'ga' at the end. It's the magic word for 'but...'
Don't Overdo It
If you use it every sentence, you'll sound like a robot or a sarcastic person. Save it for the 'big' polite moments.
Pair with a Bow
A small 15-degree bow while saying this makes you look like a pro.
The 'Fear' is Fake
Remember, you aren't actually scared! It's just a linguistic way of saying 'I respect you a lot.'
自分をテスト
Fill in the blank to make a polite request at a hotel.
____、お名前を伺ってもよろしいでしょうか？
In a formal setting like a hotel, 'Osoreirimasu ga' is the perfect cushion for a request.
Match the phrase to the correct situation.
When your boss praises your hard work, you say:
Using 'Osoreirimasu' shows you are humble and respect your boss's opinion.
Complete the business phone call.
A: 田中部長はいらっしゃいますか？ B: ____、部長はただいま会議中です。
This softens the refusal of the request to speak with the manager.
Which of these is NOT an appropriate use of '{恐|おそ}れ{入|い}ります'?
Select the incorrect usage:
It's too formal for siblings. 'Arigato' is better.
🎉 スコア： /4
ビジュアル学習ツール
Formality Scale
練習問題バンク
4 問題____、お名前を伺ってもよろしいでしょうか？
In a formal setting like a hotel, 'Osoreirimasu ga' is the perfect cushion for a request.
When your boss praises your hard work, you say:
Using 'Osoreirimasu' shows you are humble and respect your boss's opinion.
A: 田中部長はいらっしゃいますか？ B: ____、部長はただいま会議中です。
This softens the refusal of the request to speak with the manager.
Select the incorrect usage:
It's too formal for siblings. 'Arigato' is better.
🎉 スコア： /4
よくある質問
14 問Yes! It's very common in the opening or when making a request in a formal email.
Yes, it's very appropriate, especially if you are asking for a big favor like a recommendation letter.
'Osoreirimasu' is more common in speech; 'Kyoushuku desu' is more common in writing.
No, it's also for 'Excuse me' and 'I'm sorry to bother you.'
Yes, it's gender-neutral.
Yes, 'Osoreirimashita,' but it means 'I was defeated' or 'I am impressed by your skill.'
The meaning is simple, but using it correctly requires understanding Japanese social levels.
'Arigato' is too casual for business or strangers in formal settings.
You can, but 'Sumimasen' is more common there. 'Osoreirimasu' might sound a bit too fancy for a 7-Eleven.
People will still understand you, but try to get the 'iri' part clear.
Yes, usually by butler characters, maids, or professional office workers.
Not at all. It's used every single day in modern Japanese offices.
Ending with 'ga...' and trailing off is a very Japanese way to be polite.
No, 'Gomen' is very casual. Never use 'Gomen' with a boss!
関連フレーズ
{恐縮|きょう|しゅく}です
synonymI am ashamed/grateful
すみません
similarExcuse me / Sorry
{失礼|しつ|れい}します
similarExcuse me (lit. I am being rude)
お{願|ねが}いします
builds onPlease
ありがとうございます
similarThank you
