expression
refraining from New Year's greetings during mourning
A formal expression used in written notices (e.g., on postcards) to inform others that one will not send New Year's greetings due to a family bereavement. Commonly seen on 喪中はがき (mourning postcards).
喪中欠礼のため、年賀状を差し控えさせていただきます。
Due to mourning, I will refrain from sending New Year's cards.
喪中欠礼のはがきが届いた。
I received a mourning notice postcard.
Compound of 喪中 (mourning period) and 欠礼 (omission of greetings). A set phrase used in formal correspondence.