Is "Shōchi Itashimashita" Correct Keigo? Meaning, Usage, and Alternatives Explained

"Shōchi itashimashita" (承知いたしました) is a polite and correct honorific (keigo) expression used when accepting a request or instruction from a superior or a client. It is used frequently in business emails and phone calls, but many people wonder "isn't it a double honorific?" or "how does it differ from 'shōchi shimashita'?" This article clearly explains the meaning, makeup, correct usage, and alternative expressions for "shōchi itashimashita," with example sentences.

"Shōchi itashimashita" is correct keigo

To state the conclusion first, "shōchi itashimashita" is correct keigo and can be used without any problem toward superiors and clients. It politely conveys that you have understood the other party's request or instruction and have undertaken it.

Meaning and makeup

"Shōchi itashimashita" is easier to understand if you break it into "shōchi" and "itasu."

• Shōchi (承知): a word meaning to understand the circumstances, to undertake, or to accept.
• Itasu (いたす): the humble form (kenjōgo) of "suru" (to do). It conveys one's own action humbly.

In other words, "shōchi itashimashita" is a humble way of saying "I have understood (your request) and undertaken it." Because it humbles one's own action, it is an expression well suited for use toward those of higher standing.

"Shōchi itashimashita" is not a double honorific

Some people mistakenly believe "shōchi itashimashita" is a double honorific, but this is incorrect. A double honorific refers to stacking the same type of honorific onto a single word.

"Shōchi" is not an honorific but an ordinary word, and only the humble form "itasu" (of "suru") has been added to it, so only one honorific is used, and it does not amount to a double honorific. You can use it with confidence.

How to use "shōchi itashimashita" (example sentences)

Emails to a superior or client

• "Shōchi itashimashita. Soredewa ashita made ni shiryō o sakusei itashimasu." (Understood. I will then prepare the materials by tomorrow.)
• "Nittei henkō no ken, shōchi itashimashita. Go-renraku arigatō gozaimasu." (Understood regarding the schedule change. Thank you for letting me know.)
• "Shōchi itashimashita. Kongo wa ◯◯ no tejun de susumete mairimasu." (Understood. From now on, I will proceed following the ◯◯ procedure.)

Phone and spoken

• "Hai, shōchi itashimashita. Sugu ni taiō itashimasu." (Yes, understood. I will handle it right away.)
• "Shōchi itashimashita. Tantōsha ni mōshitsutaemasu." (Understood. I will relay this to the person in charge.)

When accepting a request

Using it when you want to clearly show that you have received the other party's request gives them the reassurance that you have "properly understood and undertaken it."

The difference from "shōchi shimashita"

Both "shōchi shimashita" and "shōchi itashimashita" are correct keigo. The difference lies in the degree of politeness.

• Shōchi shimashita (承知しました): polite form (teineigo). Standard politeness, easy to use for in-company exchanges and the like.
• Shōchi itashimashita (承知いたしました): includes the humble form, a more self-effacing expression. Suited to clients and those of higher standing.

Use them according to the other party and the level of formality. In situations where you want to be more polite, choosing "shōchi itashimashita" is the safe option.

Alternative expressions

• Kashikomarimashita (かしこまりました): the most deferential expression. Especially common in customer service and client-facing situations.
• Uketamawarimashita (承りました): used when respectfully receiving an order, request, or message.
• Haishō itashimashita (拝承いたしました): a very formal written expression. Suited to formal emails and documents.
• Ryōkai shimashita (了解しました): a casual expression. Be careful, as it can be rude toward those of higher standing.

Points to note when using it

1. Don't use "ryōkai shimashita" toward superiors: "ryōkai" gives a casual impression. Use "shōchi itashimashita" or "kashikomarimashita" toward superiors and clients.
2. Don't overuse it: repeating it over and over in an email gives a mechanical impression. Mix in other acknowledging expressions in moderation.
3. Pair it with confirmation of the content: adding a brief note of what you have acknowledged prevents mismatches in understanding.

Summary

"Shōchi itashimashita" is correct keigo that politely conveys that you have understood and undertaken the other party's request or instruction. It is not a double honorific, and can be used with confidence toward superiors and clients.

• Shōchi itashimashita = a humble expression of "I have understood and undertaken it"
• It is not a double honorific, so it can be used toward superiors
• When you want to be more polite, choose "shōchi itashimashita" over "shōchi shimashita"
• Alternatives include kashikomarimashita, uketamawarimashita, haishō itashimashita, and so on
• It is safest to avoid "ryōkai shimashita" toward superiors

Use the right expression for each situation, and put it to work for polite, trust-building communication.