1.
a little while ago, just now, a moment ago
Refers to a short time in the recent past, typically within the same day or conversation.
先程電話がありました。
There was a phone call a little while ago.
先程お話しした件ですが。
Regarding the matter we discussed earlier.
先程は失礼しました。
I apologize for earlier.
先程お送りしたメールに添付ファイルを付け忘れました。
I forgot to attach the file to the email I sent earlier.
先程お電話した者ですが、担当者の方はお戻りになりましたでしょうか。
I am the person who called earlier. Has the person in charge returned?
Very polite business Japanese
先程 refers to a short time in the recent past, typically within the same conversation or meeting.
REGISTER:
Polite and formal. Standard in business settings, customer service, and formal writing.
FORMALITY COMPARISON:
- さっき: casual (friends, family)
- 先程: polite/formal (business, strangers)
- ついさっき: just a moment ago (casual emphasis)
COMMON EXPRESSIONS:
- 先程は失礼しました: I apologize for earlier
- 先程お話しした件: the matter we discussed earlier
- 先程お電話した者です: This is the person who called earlier
USAGE NOTE:
In formal contexts, always use 先程 instead of さっき to maintain appropriate politeness.