JLPT N3
Deepest Apology (Business Professional)
Japanese
もうしわけございません
Moushiwake gozaimasen
Lesson & Usage
- [English equivalent: "I sincerely apologize" or "Please accept my deepest apologies."] The highest level of formal apology. It is used in business when a significant error has occurred or a customer has been seriously inconvenienced. Unlike the casual "Sumimasen," this phrase must be spoken with a deep bow to show your absolute sincerity and lack of any excuse.
Culture & Etiquette
- "Moushiwake" means "An explanation" or "A way to defend one's actions." By saying "Moushiwake-nai" (There is no moushiwake), you are stating: "My mistake is so clear and my regret so deep that I have absolutely no excuse or defense for what I have done." It is a complete surrender of ego to show sincerity.
