誠に

• Reading: まことに
• Romaji: makotoni
• Kanji breakdown: 誠 (sei/makoto) — sincerity, truth
• Pronunciation: /ma.ko.to.ni/

Meaning

Indeed; truly; sincerely. A formal intensifier expressing genuine feeling or emphasis.

An adverb derived from the noun 誠 (makoto, sincerity/truth). Used almost exclusively in formal and polite speech, especially in apologies (誠に申し訳ございません) and expressions of gratitude (誠にありがとうございます). Rarely heard in casual conversation.

Examples

1. 誠に申し訳ございません。 We are sincerely sorry.
2. 誠にありがとうございます。 Thank you very much indeed.
3. 誠に残念ですが、今回は参加できません。 It is truly regrettable, but I will be unable to attend this time.

Usage Guide

Context: business, customer service, formal speech

Tone: respectful

Origin & History

From 誠 (makoto), an ancient word for sincerity and truth, combined with the adverbial particle に. The kanji 誠 combines 言 (words) and 成 (become), suggesting words that ring true.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal