adverb, noun
with effort; at great pains; specially
Expresses that something was done with considerable effort or that a rare opportunity should not be wasted. Often used in phrases like せっかく～のに (even though one went to the trouble) or せっかくだから (since it's a special occasion).
せっかく来たのに、店は閉まっていた。
Even though I made the effort to come, the shop was closed.
せっかくの休みだから、どこかへ出かけよう。
Since it's a rare day off, let's go out somewhere.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
rare; valuable; precious; long-awaited
Describes something that is hard to come by or a special opportunity. Often used attributively with の, as in せっかくの機会 (a rare opportunity).
せっかくのチャンスを逃した。
I missed a rare chance.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
Used to describe a kind or generous act, often in the phrase せっかくのご好意 (your kind offer). This sense is somewhat formal and less common in casual speech.
せっかくのご好意ですが、お受けできません。
I appreciate your kind offer, but I cannot accept it.