How to Use Cushion Words in Business Situations
Table of Contents
1. What are “cushion words”?
2. Situations Where Cushion Words Are Useful
3. When Asking a Question
4. When Making a Request
5. When Declining
6. When Expressing Disagreement
7. Summary
8. Similar Articles
9. Comment
Q: What are “cushion words”?
A: Cushion words are expressions used as prefaces in conversations, playing a crucial role in Japanese business settings. By using cushion words to show consideration for the other person before starting a conversation, you can build positive relationships and facilitate smoother communication.
Here, we will explain commonly used cushion words by situation and provide practical examples to help you understand their application.
Situations Where Cushion Words Are Useful
Cushion words are particularly helpful in the following situations:
- When asking a question
- When making a request
- When declining an offer
- When expressing disagreement
In these scenarios, using cushion words instead of stating your thoughts directly can leave a positive impression on the other person and help maintain a trusting relationship.
When Asking a Question
When asking a question, it’s important to consider the other person’s situation and time. Adding cushion words can help you show respect while making it easier to introduce your topic.
[Commonly Used Expressions]
「お忙しいところ、申し訳ございませんが…」
“I’m sorry to bother you when you’re busy, but…”
「少しお時間をいただいてもよろしいでしょうか」
“Would it be alright if I take a moment of your time?”
[Examples]
「部長。お忙しいところ申し訳ございませんが、こちらの書類について質問があります。」
“Sir, I apologize for bothering you when you’re busy, but I have a question regarding this document.“
「お忙しいところ恐縮ですが、来週の会議について確認させていただいてもよろしいでしょうか。」
“I apologize for interrupting you during a busy time, but may I confirm something about next week’s meeting?”
When Making a Request
When making a request, it’s crucial to show consideration for the other person’s time and effort. This approach helps convey sincerity, making it easier for the other person to respond positively, even if they are busy.
[Commonly Used Expressions]
「お忙しいところ、恐れ入りますが…」
“I’m sorry to bother you when you’re busy, but…”
「お手数/ご面倒をお掛けいたしますが…」
“I apologize for the inconvenience, but…”
[Examples]
「お忙しいところ恐れ入りますが、こちらの書類をご確認いただけないでしょうか。」
“I’m sorry to bother you while you’re busy, but could you kindly review this document?”
「お手数をお掛けいたしますが、こちらにご住所とお名前をご記入の上、窓口までご提出いただけますと幸いです。」
“I apologize for the inconvenience, but could you please fill in your address and name on this form and submit it to the counter?”
When Declining
When declining a request or invitation, it’s essential to consider the other person’s feelings and adequately express your apologies.
1. When Declining a Request
[Commonly Used Expressions]
「ご期待に添えず申し訳ございませんが…」
“I’m sorry I can’t meet your expectations, but…”
「誠に申し訳ございませんが…」
“I deeply apologize, but…”
「せっかくなのですが…」
“I truly appreciate it, but…”
[Examples]
A: 「この仕事を引き受けてくれませんか？」
B: 「ご期待に添えず申し訳ございませんが、今のわたしでは力不足かと思われます。せっかくのお話ですが今回はお引き受けいたしかねます。」
A: “Could you take on this task?”
B: “I’m terribly sorry to disappoint you, but I believe I lack the necessary skills at this time. I truly appreciate the opportunity, but I’m afraid I must decline on this occasion.”
2. When Declining an Invitation
[Commonly Used Expressions]
「せっかくご招待いただいたのですが…」
“I truly appreciate the invitation, but…”
「あいにくではございますが…」
“Unfortunately…”
[Examples]
A: 「来週、飲み会があるんですがどうですか。」
B: 「せっかくなのですが、来週は先約がありまして。また今度参加させてください。」
A: “There’s a drinking party next week. How about joining us?”
B: “I really appreciate the invitation, but I already have prior commitments next week. Please let me join next time.”
When Expressing Disagreement
When disagreeing with someone, it is important to be considerate and avoid sounding confrontational. Using a preface that conveys the nuance of “I’d like to share a small opinion” can help maintain a respectful tone.
[Commonly Used Expressions]
「（大変/非常に）申し上げにくいのですが…」
“(It’s very/quite) difficult for me to say this, but…”
「差し出がましいようですが…」
“I may be overstepping, but…”
「出過ぎたことを申しますが…」
“I may be overstepping, but…”
[Examples]
A: 「では、新商品はこの計画で進めましょうか。」
B: 「大変申し上げにくいのですが、現在のトレンドから考えて色を見直してはいかがでしょうか。」
A: “Shall we proceed with this plan for the new product?”
B: “It’s very difficult for me to say this, but considering current trends, how about reviewing the color?”
A: 「どうも効率が上がりませんね。」
B: 「出過ぎたことを申しますが、スケジュールを少し見直すことで効率が上がるかもしれません。」
A: “It seems the efficiency isn’t improving.”
B: “I may be overstepping, but reviewing the schedule slightly might help improve efficiency.”
Summary
Cushion words are an essential expression deeply rooted in Japan’s cultural background and values.
In business settings, using cushion words allows you to show respect to the other party while facilitating smooth communication.
By appropriately incorporating cushion words, you can build positive relationships and deepen trust with others.
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