Processing keyword: ～に際して (〜ni saishite)

Japanese Grammar Point: ～に際して (〜ni saishite)

1. Introduction

The grammar point ～に際して (〜ni saishite) is a formal expression in Japanese used to indicate a specific occasion or time when something important happens. It is often employed in formal speeches, writings, announcements, or official documents. Mastering this grammar point will enable you to express significant events or actions associated with particular occasions in a refined and sophisticated manner.

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2. Core Grammar Explanation

Meaning

• ～に際して (〜ni saishite) translates to "on the occasion of," "at the time of," or "when."
• It is used to denote a particular time or opportunity when an action occurs, especially in preparation for or commencement of a significant event.

Structure

Formation:

1. Verb (Dictionary Form) + に際して
   • Example:

     出発するに際して (Shuppatsu suru ni saishite) - At the time of departure
     

2. Noun + に際して
   • Example:

     入学に際して (Nyūgaku ni saishite) - On the occasion of enrollment
     

Formation Diagram

Component	Notes
Verb (Dictionary Form)	The base form of the verb (e.g., 行く)
Noun	Event or occasion (e.g., 結婚)
に際して	Particle meaning "on the occasion of"

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3. Comparative Analysis

Comparison with Similar Grammar Points

～にあたって (〜ni atatte)

• Similarity: Both expressions are used to indicate "on the occasion of" or "at the time of."
• Difference:
  • ～に際して: Used for both positive and neutral events; more formal.
  • ～にあたって: Typically used for positive events; emphasizes preparation or commencement.

～とき (〜toki)

• Similarity: Both mean "when."
• Difference:
  • ～に際して: Formal; used for specific, often significant events.
  • ～とき: Neutral; used in everyday conversation for any time reference.

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4. Examples in Context

Sentence Examples

1. 卒業に際して、一言ご挨拶申し上げます。 Sotsugyō ni saishite, hitokoto go-aisatsu mōshiagemasu.

   Translation: On the occasion of my graduation, I would like to say a few words.

2. ご利用に際しての注意事項をお読みください。 Goriyō ni saishite no chūijikō o oyomi kudasai.

   Translation: Please read the precautions when using [this service].

3. 新製品発売に際して、記者会見が行われた。 Shinseihin hatsubai ni saishite, kishakaiken ga okonawareta.

   Translation: A press conference was held on the occasion of the new product launch.

4. お申し込みに際して、以下の書類が必要です。 Omōshikomi ni saishite, ika no shorui ga hitsuyō desu.

   Translation: The following documents are required when applying.

5. 転職に際して、多くの人が不安を感じる。 Tenshoku ni saishite, ōku no hito ga fuan o kanjiru.

   Translation: Many people feel anxious when changing jobs.

Contextual Usage

• Used predominantly in formal contexts.
• Commonly appears in official statements, manuals, speeches, and written correspondence.

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5. Cultural Notes

Cultural Relevance

• Formality: The use of ～に際して conveys a sense of formality and respect, aligning with Japanese cultural emphasis on social hierarchies and politeness.
• Politeness Levels: Often used with honorific language (敬語 keigo) to show respect, especially in business or official settings.

Idiomatic Expressions

• に際しまして: Even more formal version of に際して.
  • Example:

    開会に際しまして、一言ご挨拶申し上げます。
    (Kaikai ni saishimashite, hitokoto go-aisatsu mōshiagemasu.)
    

    Translation: On the occasion of the opening, I would like to say a few words.

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6. Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

1. Using with Casual Situations
   • Incorrect: 昨夜、ご飯を食べるに際してテレビを見た。 Sakuya, gohan o taberu ni saishite terebi o mita.
     • Using に際して for a routine activity like eating dinner is unnatural.
2. Mixing Formal and Informal Language
   • Incorrect: 入学に際して、友達とパーティーした。 Nyūgaku ni saishite, tomodachi to pātī shita.
     • Combining the formal に際して with casual past tense した creates inconsistency.

Tips

• Use Appropriately: Reserve ～に際して for significant events or formal contexts.
• Maintain Formality: Ensure the entire sentence maintains a consistent level of formality.
• Alternative Expressions: For casual situations, use ～とき (〜toki) instead.

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7. Summary and Review

Key Takeaways

• Meaning: ～に際して means "on the occasion of" or "at the time of," used for significant events.
• Usage: Used with Verb (Dictionary Form) or Noun.
• Formality: It's a formal expression; match the sentence's formality accordingly.
• Common Errors: Avoid using it with casual events or mixing with informal language.

Quick Recap Quiz

1. What is the general meaning of ～に際して?
   • Answer: "On the occasion of" or "at the time of" a significant event.
2. Is に際して suitable for casual, everyday activities?
   • Answer: No, it is reserved for formal or significant occasions.
3. Fill in the blank with the correct grammar point: 新年______、一言ご挨拶申し上げます。
   • Answer: 新年に際して、一言ご挨拶申し上げます。

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8. Additional Practice

Exercise: Correct the Mistakes

Sentence:

• 旅行に際して、友達と遊びに行ったよ。

What's Wrong?

• Mixing formal に際して with casual ending 行ったよ.

Corrected Sentence:

• 旅行に際して、友人と遊びに行きました。 Ryokō ni saishite, yūjin to asobi ni ikimashita.

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Feel free to revisit this lesson to reinforce your understanding of ～に際して. Using this grammar point appropriately will enhance your formal Japanese communication skills.

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