This phrase shows the highest level of a feeling or idea. You use it with words for feelings or ideas.
Noun + の至りPrimary
This phrase shows the highest level of a feeling or idea. You use it with words for feelings or ideas.
このような名誉ある賞をいただき、光栄の至りでございます。
To receive such a prestigious award is the utmost honor.
今思えば、あの時の無謀な行動は全くの若気の至りでした。
Looking back now, those reckless actions at that time were purely the folly of youth.
社長にまでご足労いただき、恐縮の至りです。
I am extremely grateful to you, Mr. President, for taking the trouble to come.
専門家の前で知ったかぶりをしてしまい、自分の無知の至りを恥じました。
I pretended to know everything in front of an expert, and was ashamed of my own utter ignorance.
皆様の温かいご支援に、感激の至りでございます。
I am deeply moved by everyone's warm support.
This phrase sounds very formal. It is like speaking in an old, grand style. Use it for important speeches or serious writing. Do not use it when talking with friends. It would sound strange.
It is like '〜の極み'. But '〜の至り' is often about your feelings. It is in set phrases like '若気の至り'. '〜の極み' can be for things you see, like '贅沢の極み'. '〜極まりない' is only for very bad things. '〜の至り' can be for good or bad things.
Don't use this when talking about things you can touch. For example, you can't say "desk no itari". This pattern is for feelings or ideas. You use it with words like "honor" or "ignorance".
Contrasts with(2)
More formal alternatives(1)
Track your mastery
Kumi's KMT system tracks your mastery across kanji, vocabulary, grammar, and reading. Create a free account to use it on 220,000+ concepts.