GRAMMAR DETAIL
〜に際して
Formally indicates taking an associated action when facing an important event or special situation.
Examples
契約に際して、条件をもう一度確認した。
Upon signing the contract, I checked the terms once more.
Words used
就職に際して、将来の希望を考えた。
When taking a new job, I considered what I hoped for in the future.
Words used
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure:
に際してafter an event noun or dictionary-form verb formally introduces an action associated with an important occasion. - Basic usage:
契約に際して、条件をもう一度確認した。describes checking the terms again when entering into a contract.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- An event noun versus a verb clause
契約に際してtakes the noun契約, while契約を結ぶに際してtakes the full act of concluding a contract. A verb clause does not require addingのto turn it into a noun here.
- Marking an occasion without fixing it after completion
就職に際して将来を考えるconsiders the future on the occasion of entering employment.に際してalone does not fix the action immediately after employment has begun.