if it's alright; if you don't mind; if it's convenient
Polite conditional phrase used to soften a request or question. Literally 'if there is no hindrance'. Often used before asking a personal question or making a request.
See also: 差し支え (さしつかえ)
If you don't mind, could you tell me your name?
If it's convenient, could you give me a reply by tomorrow?
Standard kanji spelling; the kanji 支 is common in formal writing.
Mixed kana spelling; often used when the kanji 支 is considered difficult or in less formal contexts.
Negative conditional form of the verb 差し支える (to interfere, to be hindered). The phrase literally means 'if it does not interfere' and became a fixed polite expression.