Formal to Superior
Workplace · Reporting
申し訳ございません。私の確認不足でした。 — I sincerely apologize. It was due to my failure to verify properly. (Workplace · Reporting, Formal to Superior, JLPT N4)
You
申し訳ございません。私の確認不足でした。
もうしわけございません。わたしのかくにんぶそくでした。
I sincerely apologize. It was due to my failure to verify properly.
Romaji: Mōshiwake gozaimasen. Watashi no kakunin-busoku deshita. / Reply Romaji: Tsugi kara wa shikkari kakunin shite kudasai.
Reply
次からはしっかり確認してください。
つぎからはしっかりかくにんしてください。
Please make sure to verify properly next time.
Gesture & etiquette
Bow at 45 degrees — deeper than usual — as you apologize; hold the bow briefly and straighten only after the superior responds; keep your posture attentive and composed throughout, not shrunken with shame.
Taking clear, unqualified personal responsibility ('私の確認不足') without deflection or excuse is highly valued in Japan. Immediately follow with a corrective action plan: 'すぐに確認して、改めてご連絡いたします。' (I will verify right away and report back.) Action-focused apologies rebuild trust faster than lengthy explanations or justifications.