Meaning
Stating that the current time is late.
Cultural Background
Punctuality is a core value, so 'already late' carries more weight than in some Western cultures. In international business, this phrase can be perceived as blunt if not softened with 'zannen desu ga' (unfortunately).
Softening the blow
Add 'zannen desu ga' before 'mou osoi desu' to sound more polite.
Meaning
Stating that the current time is late.
Softening the blow
Add 'zannen desu ga' before 'mou osoi desu' to sound more polite.
Test Yourself
Which is the correct polite form?
Choose the correct phrase for 'It is already late'.
Adjectives end in 'i' before 'desu'.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesChoose the correct phrase for 'It is already late'.
Adjectives end in 'i' before 'desu'.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsNo, use 'osoi' to describe speed, but avoid calling people 'late' directly.
Related Phrases
遅刻する
similarTo be late for an appointment
間に合わない
similarWon't make it in time
