Useful Introductory Phrases for Speaking in a Business Meeting
Participating in a business meeting in Japan can feel intimidating. The language is more formal (keigo), and there are unwritten rules about how to interject, ask questions, and present your opinions. One of the keys to navigating this is knowing the standard introductory phrases, or "cushion words," that are used before you speak.
Using these set phrases shows that you understand the formal context and respect the flow of the meeting. It's not about what you say, but *how* you begin to say it. These phrases act as a polite signal that you would like to contribute.
This guide will introduce you to the essential set phrases you need to use before you give your opinion, ask a question, or even disagree, allowing you to participate in meetings with confidence.
1. Before Asking a Question
When you need clarification or want to ask a question, it's polite to start with a brief apology for interrupting the flow of discussion.
Standard Phrase for Questions:
すみません、一つ質問よろしいでしょうか？
(Sumimasen, hitotsu shitsumon yoroshii deshou ka?)
"Excuse me, may I ask one question?"
Another common and very polite alternative is:
恐れ入ります、少々確認させていただけますでしょうか？
(Osoreirimasu ga, shōshō kakunin sasete itadakemasu deshou ka?)
"Pardon me, but could I just confirm something briefly?"
2. Before Stating Your Opinion
When you want to share your own thoughts or proposal, it's standard to use an introductory phrase that shows you are offering your idea for consideration.
To Express an Opinion:
私からは以上です。 is often used at the end, but to start:
一点、補足させていただきますと…
(Itten, hosoku sasete itadakimasu to...)
"If I may add one point..."
A More General Way:
私の意見としましては、〜と考えております。
(Watashi no iken toshimashite wa, ...to kangaete orimasu.)
"As for my opinion, I believe that..."
3. Before Disagreeing or Expressing a Different View
This is the most delicate situation. Direct disagreement is a major taboo. You must first acknowledge the other person's point before gently introducing your own, different perspective. The key is to show you understand and respect their idea first.
The Go-To Phrase for Polite Disagreement:
おっしゃることは大変よく分かります。ただ、別の視点から見ますと…
(Ossharu koto wa taihen yoku wakarimasu. Tada, betsu no shiten kara mimasu to...)
"I understand what you are saying very well. However, if we look at it from a different perspective..."
Another useful pattern is to frame your disagreement as a mere possibility:
大変申し上げにくいのですが、〜という可能性も考えられないでしょうか。
(Taihen mōshiage nikui no desu ga, ...to iu kanōsei mo kangaerarenai deshou ka.)
"This is very difficult to say, but couldn't we also consider the possibility that...?"
Conclusion
In Japanese business meetings, these introductory remarks are not just polite fluff—they are a critical part of the communication process. They signal your intention, respect the other participants, and allow the conversation to proceed smoothly.
By mastering these key phrases for asking questions, stating opinions, and disagreeing politely, you can present yourself as a culturally aware and effective communicator in any Japanese professional setting.