Kanji 差 distinction, difference, variation 支 branch, support, sustain Related words 差さ し 支つか える The verb form meaning 'to interfere' or 'to be hindered'. 差し支えなければ is the negative conditional form of this verb, used as a set phrase.
よろしければ A more common and slightly less formal alternative meaning 'if it's good/all right'. 差し支えなければ is more polite and emphasizes the absence of inconvenience.
Written forms 差さ し 支つか えなければ
Standard kanji spelling; the kanji 支 is common in formal writing.
差さ しつかえなければ
Mixed kana spelling; often used when the kanji 支 is considered difficult or in less formal contexts.
Etymology 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.
Report an issue with this page
Copyright © 2026 Kotomora. All Rights Reserved.
