の至りThe utmost feeling or evaluation
の至り formally presents a feeling or self-evaluation as having reached the highest degree. It is especially common in ceremonial expressions of honor, deep emotion, or shame.
How it works
至り suggests reaching an endpoint. In this construction, a conventional feeling noun is presented as reaching its utmost degree. The speaker is normally responding to a particular occasion: receiving an honor, hearing moving words, or publicly recognizing an embarrassing failure.
Honor and deep emotion
Positive uses often appear in acceptance speeches and formal expressions of gratitude.
Formal expressions of shame
The construction also appears in elevated public apologies and self-critical remarks.
A similar expression with a wider range
の至り is strongly associated with formal personal feelings and social formulas. の極み can mark the extreme endpoint of a broader range of qualities and states. Because their customary combinations differ, do not replace one mechanically with the other.
More examples
長年の研究成果を認めていただき、研究者として光栄の至りです。
As a researcher, it is the greatest honor to have my many years of work recognized.
Analyzeこのような晴れの席にお招きいただき、光栄の至りでございます。
It is a tremendous honor to be invited to such an auspicious occasion.
Analyze皆様から心のこもった激励を賜り、感激の至りです。
I am deeply moved by the heartfelt encouragement I have received from you all.
Analyze身に余るご評価を頂戴し、感激の至りでございます。
I am profoundly moved by your exceedingly generous praise.
Analyze確認を怠り、多大なご迷惑をおかけしたことは、汗顔の至りです。
I am deeply ashamed that my failure to check caused such considerable trouble.
Analyze公の場で事実と異なる説明をしてしまい、赤面の至りでございます。
I am utterly ashamed that I gave an inaccurate explanation in public.
Analyze