折しも

• Reading: おりしも
• Romaji: orishimo
• Kanji breakdown: 折 (setsu/ori) — occasion, time, to fold; しも — emphatic classical particle
• Pronunciation: /o.ɾi.ɕi.mo/

Meaning

Just then; at that very moment; opportunely or inopportunely at that precise time. Used when two events coincide in a notably significant way.

A literary adverb marking striking simultaneity or fateful timing. It carries a formal, narrative tone and appears predominantly in written Japanese, historical fiction, and formal prose. Unlike ちょうどその時, 折しも heightens the dramatic or literary sense of coincidence — often implying that the timing was beyond chance.

Examples

1. 折しも雨が降り出し、式典は急遽屋内に移された。 Just then it started to rain, and the ceremony was hastily moved indoors.
2. 出発しようとした折しも、彼女から電話が入った。 Just as I was about to leave, I got a phone call from her.
3. 折しも桜が満開で、その日の散歩は格別の趣があった。 As it happened, the cherry blossoms were in full bloom, making that day's walk exceptionally delightful.

Usage Guide

Context: literary, narrative writing, formal speech, historical fiction

Tone: literary

Origin & History

折 means 'occasion' or 'time'; しも is an emphatic classical particle that adds stress to the preceding word. Together they highlight the significance of the precise moment in which events coincide.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated