Japanese word

恐縮

Pronunciation

Romajikyōshuku

Meaning

  • noungrateful

Example

お心遣いに恐縮しております。o kokoro zuka i ni kyō shuku shi te o ri ma su

I am grateful for your thoughtfulness.

Illustration for 恐縮 (grateful)

More examples

皆様から温かい励ましをいただき、恐縮の至りです。mina sama ka ra atata ka i hage ma shi o i ta da ki kyō shuku no ita ri de su

I am deeply grateful for the warm encouragement from everyone.

Core concept

Describes a humble sense of shrinking before another person's kindness, which leads to heartfelt gratitude.

Common phrases

  • 恐縮ですがkyō shuku de su ga

    I am sorry to trouble you, but

  • 恐縮の限りkyō shuku no kagi ri

    the utmost gratitude

  • 恐縮至極kyō shuku shi goku

    the deepest gratitude

Similar words

感謝kansha: A feeling or expression of gratitude for kindness or help.
謝意shai: A formal expression of gratitude for kindness or help.
お礼orei: An expression of thanks given for kindness, help, or consideration.

Definition in Japanese

相手の厚意をありがたく思い、身が縮むように感じること。ai te no kō i o a ri ga ta ku omo i mi ga chiji mu yō ni kan ji ru ko to

Word origin

The Sino-Japanese word 恐縮 (kyōshuku) combines 恐 (kyō, "fear") and 縮 (shuku, "shrink"), describing the feeling of shrinking before another person's kindness.

Usage tips

  • In formal Japanese conversation, 恐縮 (kyōshuku) often appears in 恐縮しております (kyōshuku shite orimasu) to express gratitude with humility, rather than simple fear.

Other meanings

  • obligednoun

Related words

  • 恐縮するkyōshukusurufeel gratefulverb

Word lists with this word