Related words· 6 に際して and にあたって are nearly interchangeable formal expressions meaning 'on the occasion of,' though に際して leans slightly more toward emphasizing the timing of the event.
際に is a lighter, more common way to say 'when/on the occasion of,' while に際して is a heavier, more formal fixed expression typical of notices and business writing.
ときに is a neutral, everyday way to say 'when,' whereas に際して carries a formal tone and specifically highlights an important occasion or step.
に際して emphasizes the special or significant nature of an occasion, while にあたり is more neutral and can also apply to routine events.
Show 2 more Show fewer に際して highlights a specific occasion or event ('on the occasion of'), whereas にあっては focuses on the broader situation or condition someone is in.
に際して is a slightly more formal equivalent used especially for special or notable occasions, while にあたっては fits everyday formal writing and instructions as well.
Etymology A fixed expression built from に plus the te-form of 際する , related to 際 meaning an occasion, time, or juncture.
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