Formal to Client
Workplace · Card
申し訳ございません、ただいま名刺を切らしておりまして。 — I am so sorry — I have run out of business cards at the moment. (Workplace · Card, Formal to Client, JLPT N3)
You
申し訳ございません、ただいま名刺を切らしておりまして。
もうしわけございません、ただいまめいしをきらしておりまして。
I am so sorry — I have run out of business cards at the moment.
Romaji: Moushiwake gozaimasen, tadaima meishi wo kirashite orimashite. / Reply Romaji: Ieie, oki ni nasarazu. Onamae wo ukagaereba.
Reply
いえいえ、お気になさらず。お名前を伺えれば。
いえいえ、おきになさらず。おなまえをうかがえれば。
No worries, no need to mind. May I have your name?
Gesture & etiquette
Bow more deeply than usual (25°) while apologizing. Still receive their card with both hands. If possible, jot your contact on a small note and hand over respectfully, or commit to email immediately.
Running out of business cards is a noticeable embarrassment in Japanese business. 'ただいま名刺を切らしておりまして' (I have run out just now) plus a deeper-than-normal bow shows sincere apology. Email digital contact details within the hour. Never enter a client meeting without checking your card case beforehand.