A very formal and polite cushion word used before making a significant request, delivering bad news, or expressing deep gratitude. It translates to 'I am terribly sorry to trouble you, but...' or 'I am sincerely grateful, but...'. The '誠に' (makoto ni) adds a strong emphasis of sincerity.
誠に恐縮ですが、 + SentencePrimary
This phrase is very polite. You use it when you ask for a big favor. You also use it when you share bad news. Or when you are very thankful. It means 'I am truly sorry to bother you' or 'I am truly thankful'.
誠に恐縮ですが、こちらの書類にご署名いただけますでしょうか。
I'm terribly sorry to bother you, but could I possibly get your signature on this document?
誠に恐縮ですが、ご提示いただいた金額ではお受けいたしかねます。
I am truly sorry, but we are unable to accept the amount you have proposed.
誠に恐縮ですが、先日お伝えした納期に誤りがございました。
I am terribly sorry, but there was an error in the delivery date I informed you of the other day.
誠に恐縮ですが、本件につきましては、もう少しお時間をいただきたく存じます。
I am very sorry for the inconvenience, but regarding this matter, I would like to request a little more time.
誠に恐縮ですが、社長室にお通しすることはできません。
I am terribly sorry, but I cannot let you into the president's office.
This word makes you feel very small. It is like feeling very thankful or very sorry. It shows you respect the other person a lot.
This phrase is much more formal than '恐れ入りますが'. You use '誠に恐縮ですが' for very big requests. You also use it for bad news. It shows you are very sorry to bother someone. '恐れ入りますが' is for general business. It is also stronger than '失礼ですが'. You use '失礼ですが' for small interruptions.
Don't use this when you talk to friends. It would sound too serious. For example, don't say it to your friend when asking for a pen.
Use this when you need to say something difficult. It shows you respect the other person. This helps keep everyone happy. You can then say your message without causing trouble.
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