It's a polite and formal expression used to apologize for something you've done or to express regret for an inconvenience.
Here's a breakdown of the components:
* 申し (moushi): To say, to report, to inform
* わけ (wake): Reason, cause, explanation
* あり (ari): To exist, to be
* ません (masen): Negative ending, indicating "not"
Putting it together, the phrase literally means "there is no reason to say [something]" or "there is no explanation." This conveys the speaker's apology by acknowledging that there is no justification for their action or the inconvenience they've caused.
Usage:
You can use "moushiwake arimasen" in various situations, such as:
* Apologizing for a mistake: "Moushiwake arimasen ga, machigai o shite shimaimashita." (I'm sorry, but I made a mistake.)
* Expressing regret for an inconvenience: "Moushiwake arimasen ga, ima wa isogashii desu." (Excuse me, but I'm busy right now.)
* Declining an offer politely: "Moushiwake arimasen ga, kekkou desu." (I'm sorry, but I decline.)
It's a versatile phrase that can be used in formal and informal settings, making it a valuable addition to your Japanese vocabulary.