ところをConsiderate concession; contrary to expectation
ところを politely acknowledges someone’s inconvenient circumstances before a request, apology, or thanks. It can also say that the normal or proper course would have been one thing, but reality was different.
Acknowledging the other person’s circumstances
The first part describes circumstances that make your request or interruption inconvenient: the person is busy, resting, eating, or has made a special effort. By placing ところを after that description, you show that you recognize the burden before continuing with an apology, thanks, or request.
Requests, apologies, and thanks
お忙しいところを恐れ入りますが、こちらの書類をご確認いただけますでしょうか。
I am sorry to trouble you while you are busy, but could you please check these documents?
Analyzeご休憩中のところ、急なお願いをして申し訳ございません。
I sincerely apologize for making a sudden request while you are on your break.
AnalyzeThe object particle is omitted here, as is common in this conventional polite use.
ご多用のところを会議にご出席いただき、誠にありがとうございました。
Thank you very much for attending the meeting despite your busy schedule.
AnalyzeWhen reality departs from the proper course
ところを can also follow a description of what would normally or properly happen. The following clause then reports a different reality. This use is not primarily about politeness toward the listener; it presents a formal contrast between the expected course and the actual result.
本来なら慎重に判断すべきところを、十分な検討もせずに計画を承認してしまった。
Although the proper course would have been to judge carefully, the plan was approved without adequate consideration.
AnalyzeGeneral contrast versus considerate framing
のに is the ordinary way to connect an unexpected result and is common in everyday speech. ところを deliberately frames the preceding circumstances, often to show consideration or to contrast reality with a proper or expected course in formal language.
More examples
お休みのところを失礼いたします。設備点検の日程について確認がございます。
Please excuse me for contacting you while you are off. I have a question about the equipment inspection schedule.
Analyzeお食事中のところ、申し訳ありません。後ほどかけ直します。
I am sorry to have called during your meal. I will call back later.
Analyzeご多忙のところご助言を賜り、心より御礼申し上げます。
I offer my heartfelt thanks for your advice despite your busy schedule.
Analyzeお急ぎのところを恐縮ですが、申請内容をもう一度ご確認ください。
I am sorry to trouble you when you are in a hurry, but please check the application details once more.
Analyze本来なら事前に説明すべきところを、連絡が当日になってしまい、申し訳ございません。
Although an explanation should have been given in advance, notice was delayed until the day itself. Please accept our sincere apologies.
Analyze規定どおり不受理とすべきところを、事情を考慮して再審査が認められた。
Although the application should have been rejected under the rules, reconsideration was allowed in light of the circumstances.
Analyze引き留めるべきところを、本人の決意を尊重して送り出した。
Although the usual response would have been to ask the person to stay, they were sent off out of respect for their decision.
Analyzeお足元の悪いところをお越しいただき、誠にありがとうございます。
Thank you very much for coming despite the poor weather and difficult footing.
Analyze