✍️ The Time-Travel Trick: その節は (Sono Setsu wa)

Have you ever run into a former boss, client, or senior colleague who helped you in the past, and you wanted to express your gratitude once more but felt awkward about how to bring it up?

Saying "Thank you for that time long ago" (昔、ありがとうございました - Mukashi, arigatou gozaimashita) can sound a bit too general and lacks a certain formality.

This is where a master-level communication technique comes into play: 「その節は」(Sono setsu wa).

---

🤔 What does "Sono Setsu wa" mean?

Literally, it translates to "on that occasion" or "at that time."

It's a highly polished and subtle phrase used to refer to a specific moment in the past that both you and the listener implicitly understand, without needing to spell out "that time when we did ABC, that XYZ project..." It creates a connection based on a shared memory.

💡 How to use it like a pro?

その節は is often paired with words of gratitude or apology to "refresh" those sentiments.

1. To say "thank you" again 🙏

When you want to reiterate your deep appreciation for past help.

• Scenario: You meet a former client who was incredibly helpful on a past project.
• Example:

  「ご無沙汰しております。プロジェクトの件、その節は大変お世話になりました。」 (It's been a while. Regarding the project, on that occasion, I was truly in your debt.)

👉 This shows that you not only remember but continue to cherish their help. It's far more impactful than a standard thank you.

2. To apologize again 🙇

When you want to show sincere remorse for a past mistake.

• Scenario: You see your former manager and want to apologize for a mistake that caused trouble back in the day.
• Example:

  「部長、お久しぶりです。その節は多大なご迷惑をおかけし、誠に申し訳ございませんでした。」 (Manager, it's been a long time. At that time, I caused you significant trouble, and I am sincerely sorry.)

👉 This phrasing demonstrates that you are a responsible person who still reflects on your past actions.

---

✨ The "Magic" of "Sono Setsu wa"

• Subtle & Polite: It conveys absolute humility and respect.
• Connective: It skillfully brings up a shared memory.
• Professional: It's a hallmark of someone with high-level Japanese and communication skills, especially in a business context.

In short, if you want to "travel back in time" to thank someone or apologize for a past event, don't forget this powerful tool. It will definitely make you shine in the eyes of the other person!