Formal to Client
Workplace · Email
先日ご連絡いたしましたが、お返事をまだいただいておりませんでした。ご多用中とは存じますが、ご確認いただけますでしょうか。 — I sent a message the other day but have not yet received a reply. I know you are very busy, but could you please check? (Workplace · Email, Formal to Client, JLPT N3)
You
先日ご連絡いたしましたが、お返事をまだいただいておりませんでした。ご多用中とは存じますが、ご確認いただけますでしょうか。
せんじつごれんらくいたしましたが、おへんじをまだいただいておりませんでした。ごたようちゅうとはぞんじますが、ごかくにんいただけますでしょうか。
I sent a message the other day but have not yet received a reply. I know you are very busy, but could you please check?
Romaji: Senjitsu gorenraku itashimashita ga, ohenji wo mada itadaite orimasendeshita. Gotayouchi to wa zonjimasu ga, gokakunin itadakemasu deshou ka. / Reply Romaji: Moushiwake gozaimasen, mimasen de orizashite itashimashita.
Reply
申し訳ございません、見落としておりました。
もうしわけございません、みおとしておりました。
My sincere apologies — I had missed that email.
Gesture & etiquette
This is written (email) communication. When following up, include a brief quote of or reference to the original email to help the recipient locate it quickly. If the matter is time-sensitive, consider a phone call instead of a second email — direct contact is often more effective and shows you understand the urgency.
Follow-up emails in Japan require acknowledging the recipient's busyness ('gotayouchi to wa zonjimasu' — knowing you are very busy) even when politely pressing for a response. This maintains face for the recipient while firmly requesting action. Wait at least 3-5 business days before sending a follow-up. One follow-up is appropriate; multiple follow-ups quickly become importunate in Japanese business culture.