1.
excuse me for leaving before you; goodbye (when leaving first)
A polite set phrase used when leaving a workplace, gathering, or shared space before others. It acknowledges that leaving early may be an imposition on those who remain.
お先に失礼します。お疲れさまでした。
Excuse me for leaving first. Good work today.
One of the most important workplace phrases in Japanese. Literally means 'I am being rude by going ahead (of you).' It expresses awareness that others are still working and mild apology for departing first.
Usage
Said when leaving the office, a meeting room, or any shared space while others remain. The standard response from those staying is お疲れさまです or お疲れさまでした.
Forms
- お先に: casual shortened form, used among close colleagues
- お先に失礼いたします: more formal/humble version using いたす
Cultural note
In Japanese work culture, leaving before colleagues — especially before one's superiors — can feel awkward. This phrase serves as a social lubricant that acknowledges the situation gracefully. It is used daily in virtually every Japanese workplace.