Formal — to stranger
Cultural · Communication
お忙しいところ恐縮ですが、少々お時間いただけますでしょうか。 — I am sorry to take your time when you're busy, but could you spare a few minutes? (Cultural · Communication, Formal — to stranger, JLPT N2)
You
お忙しいところ恐縮ですが、少々お時間いただけますでしょうか。
おいそがしいところきょうしゅくですが、しょうしょうおじかんいただけますでしょうか。
I am sorry to take your time when you're busy, but could you spare a few minutes?
Romaji: Oisogashii tokoro kyoushuku desu ga, shoushou ojikan itadakemasu deshou ka. / Reply Romaji: Ee, daijoubu desu yo. Douzo.
Reply
ええ、大丈夫ですよ。どうぞ。
ええ、だいじょうぶですよ。どうぞ。
Yes, that's fine. Please go ahead.
Gesture & etiquette
Approach with eye contact. If they look engaged, wait until they turn toward you. Slight bow (15°). After they grant time, dive directly into the matter.
お忙しいところ恐縮ですが is the cushion before asking for someone's time in person or by phone. Variations: お忙しい中失礼いたします, 恐れ入りますが. After acknowledging their busy schedule, dive directly into the actual request — never small-talk afterward. Respect the time you just acknowledged by being efficient.