expression
graciously; respectfully; with awe
A formal, humble expression used when one feels unworthy or deeply grateful for a favor, often in set phrases like 恐れ多くも申し上げます.
恐れ多くも、このような賞をいただき、光栄に存じます。
I am deeply honored and humbled to receive such an award.
恐れ多くも申し上げますが、少々お時間をいただけませんでしょうか。
I beg your pardon, but might I have a moment of your time?
恐れ入ります is a common polite expression for 'excuse me' or 'I'm sorry to trouble you,' while 恐れ多くも is more formal and humble, often used in ceremonial or deferential contexts.
From 恐れ (fear/awe) + 多く (much) + も (even), literally 'even with much awe.' The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but it has long been used as a set humble expression.