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。
It was nothing special. (humble reply by the host after a meal)
「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