1.
poor quality; inadequate; unsatisfactory
Describes something that is of low quality, poorly done, or disappointing. Often used critically.
お粗末な結果に終わった。
It ended with a poor result.
お粗末な対応だと批判された。
They were criticized for their inadequate response.
あまりにもお粗末な内容だった。
The content was far too poor.
2.
humble expression after serving food
A humble phrase used after serving a meal to guests, meaning 'it was nothing special' or 'sorry it wasn't much'.
お粗末さまでした。
Thank you for having the meal (humble).
「ごちそうさまでした」「お粗末さまでした」
"Thank you for the meal." "It was nothing special."
お粗末ですが、どうぞ召し上がってください。
It's nothing fancy, but please help yourself.
ETYMOLOGY:
お (honorific prefix) + 粗末 (crude, rough)
USAGE:
Sense 1: Critical evaluation of quality, often used in media/business contexts.
Sense 2: Traditional humble expression in Japanese hospitality. The host downplays their cooking as a form of modesty.
RESPONSE PATTERN:
- Guest: ごちそうさまでした (Thank you for the meal)
- Host: お粗末さまでした (It was nothing special)
COLLOCATIONS:
- お粗末な対応 - poor handling
- お粗末な結果 - poor result