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悪しからず (あしからず) Japanese meaning | Kotomora
Common word JLPT N1 Freq. Frequency Top 50,000 Meanings 1
adverb
don't get me wrong, but ... ; I'm sorry
usually written using kana alone
A set phrase used to soften a refusal, apology, or negative statement. It conveys 'please don't take this the wrong way' or 'I hope you won't be offended'. Often used in formal or polite contexts.
さん
加か
でき
ませ
ん
が
、
悪あ
しから
ず
。
I can't attend this time; please don't be offended.
Written forms 悪あ しからず
Standard kanji form; it is the primary form.
不悪あしからず
rarely-used kanji form
Rarely used kanji form.
Similar words すみません A general apology or expression of gratitude. 悪しからず is more formal and specifically asks for understanding when delivering unwelcome news.
申もう し 訳わけ ありません A stronger, more direct apology. 悪しからず focuses on asking the listener not to take offense rather than admitting fault.
Etymology From classical Japanese 悪し (ashi, 'bad') + からず (karazu, negative form of かり, an old auxiliary adjective). Literally 'it is not bad', used idiomatically to mean 'please don't think ill of me'.
