こととてGiven the circumstances; because
こととて presents a circumstance as the reason for what follows, often with an appeal to understand or allow for that circumstance. It is markedly formal, literary, and old-fashioned.
How it works
The first part names a circumstance, and the following part gives the action or result explained by it. In apology-like contexts, the tone is often “please take this circumstance into account,” but the expression can also explain neutral or favorable results.
Formal explanations
The circumstance must genuinely help explain what follows; formality alone does not make an implausible reason sound natural.
弊社の担当者が不慣れであったこととて、確認に時間を要しましたことをおわび申し上げます。
We sincerely apologize that verification took so long, as our representative was inexperienced.
AnalyzeThe reason is acknowledged within a formal apology; it does not cancel the apology or deny responsibility.
彼は長年この地で暮らしてきたこととて、村の古い習わしにも詳しかった。
Having lived in the area for many years, he was also well acquainted with the village's old customs.
AnalyzeThis is a favorable result rather than an excuse: long residence naturally explains his knowledge.
Choosing among similar reason expressions
ものだから is the ordinary conversational choice for an explanation or excuse. ため gives a more neutral cause without the same ceremonious appeal for consideration. とあって instead highlights an exceptional circumstance whose notable outcome is understandable or expected.
More examples
新人のこととて、至らぬ点も多々ございますが、何卒ご容赦ください。
As a newcomer, I have many shortcomings, and respectfully ask for your understanding.
Analyze初めてのこととて、行き届かぬ点がございましたらご指摘ください。
As this is our first time, please point out anything we may have overlooked.
Analyze突然の知らせで気が動転していたこととて、失礼な返答をしてしまいました。
I was so shaken by the sudden news that I gave an impolite reply.
Analyze彼は幼少より古典に親しんできたこととて、古文書の解読にも苦労しなかった。
Having been familiar with the classics since childhood, he had no difficulty deciphering old documents.
Analyze老齢のこととて、長旅は身体にこたえた。
Given the traveler's advanced age, the long journey took a physical toll.
Analyze辺境の小さな村のこととて、医師は一人しかいなかった。
As it was a small village in a remote region, there was only one doctor.
Analyze何分にも昔のこととて、正確な記録は残っておりません。
Since this was so long ago, no accurate records remain.
Analyze