Formal to Superior
Workplace · Reporting
You
少々お時間をいただけますか？確認してからご報告いたします。
しょうしょうおじかんをいただけますか？かくにんしてからごほうこくいたします。
Could I have a moment? I'll report back after verifying.
Romaji: Shōshō ojikan wo itadakemasu ka? Kakunin shite kara go-hōkoku itashimasu. / Reply Romaji: Wakarimashita. Yoroshiku onegaishimasu.
Reply
わかりました。よろしくお願いします。
わかりました。よろしくおねがいします。
Understood. I'll be counting on you.
Gesture & etiquette
Write a note immediately to signal commitment; make brief eye contact to confirm the superior acknowledges the request; return with information promptly and proactively — don't wait to be asked again.
Answering 'I don't know' without follow-up is seen as unhelpful in Japan. This phrase transforms an uncertain moment into a committed action: you're not just delaying — you're promising to verify and return with accurate information. Always include a specific time estimate when you can: '30分ほどで確認いたします' (I'll confirm within about 30 minutes).