adverb, noun
Refers to a recent past event, similar to 'the other day' or 'not long ago'. Often used in polite or formal contexts.
このほど、新しいプロジェクトが始まりました。
A new project started the other day.
adverb, noun
Used to refer to the current instance or opportunity, often in announcements or formal statements.
このほどは、ご参加いただきありがとうございます。
Thank you for participating on this occasion.
Compound of この (this) and ほど (extent, time). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but it has been used since classical Japanese to refer to a recent time or the present occasion.