返信が遅くなってすみません
The English phrase "sorry for my late reply" is translated into Japanese as 返信が遅くなってすみません.
What does it mean word for word?
The word 返信 (henshin) specifically refers to a reply to a message or email.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
In highly formal business contexts, use 返信が遅れて申し訳ございません instead of 返信が遅くなってすみません. When speaking to friends or close peers, you can use the casual form 返信遅れてごめん.
Did you know?
- In Japanese digital culture, sending a reply too quickly can sometimes be perceived as being too eager or lacking a thoughtful process, making a slight delay socially acceptable.
- In Japanese business culture, it is common to apologize for a 'late' reply even if you respond within a few hours, as a way of showing the other person their time is valued.
- The phrase すみません (sumimasen) used in your apology actually contains the meaning of 'it will not do', which originally implied that the mistake is an unacceptable state of affairs.
Examples in context
- お返事が遅くなり、申し訳ございません。I'm sorry for the late reply.
- お返事が遅くなり、大変申し訳ありません。I deeply apologize for the late reply.
- 返信が遅くなってすみません。Henshin ga osoku natte sumimasen.I am sorry for my late reply.
- メールの返信が遅くなってすみません。Mēru no henshin ga osoku natte sumimasen.I am sorry for my late reply to your email.
- 返信が遅くなってすみません、確認しました。Henshin ga osoku natte sumimasen, kakunin shimashita.Sorry for my late reply, I have confirmed it.
Example conversation
Himari is apologizing to Ren for responding late to a message about a meeting.
- 陽葵 Himari返信が遅くなってすみません、蓮さん。Henshin ga osoku natte sumimasen, Ren-san.Sorry for my late reply, Ren.
- 蓮 Renいえいえ、大丈夫ですよ。Ie ie, daijoubu desu yo.No, no, it is fine.
- 陽葵 Himari明日の時間はこれでいいですか？Ashita no jikan wa kore de ii desu ka?Is this time okay for tomorrow?
- 蓮 Renはい、問題ありません。Hai, mondai arimasen.Yes, that is no problem.
