1.
to be obliged; to be grateful
A humble expression of gratitude or appreciation when receiving kindness or favors from others.
ご親切に恐れ入ります。
I'm much obliged for your kindness.
2.
to be sorry for troubling; excuse me
A polite way to apologize for troubling someone or to preface a request.
恐れ入りますが、もう一度説明していただけますか。
I'm sorry to trouble you, but could you explain again?
恐れ入りますが、お名前を伺えますか。
Excuse me, may I ask your name?
恐れ入る is a very polite humble expression used in formal situations.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 恐れ入りますが…: Excuse me, but... (preface to request)
- 恐れ入ります: I'm much obliged / Thank you
USAGE CONTEXTS:
- Business situations
- Customer service
- Formal telephone calls
- Making polite requests
SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:
- すみませんが: Excuse me, but... (less formal)
- 申し訳ありませんが: I'm sorry, but... (apologetic)