に当たって
When, When doing something, On the occasion, At the time
Structure
Noun + にあたり(1)
(1) にあたって
Explanation
に当たり and に当たって are formal Japanese expressions used to mark a significant moment, meaning 'upon (A)', 'in preparation for (A)', or 'at the moment of (A)'. It shares similarities with に際して, as it is frequently used when preparing for an important upcoming event. This grammar point is formed by combining the particle に with the verb 当たる, which means 'to face' or 'to undertake', in its conjunctive or て-form.
に当たり connects to either a noun or the dictionary form of a verb. This pattern generally carries two distinct nuances, each of which we will explore with some example sentences.
The first usage highlights (A) as a special milestone or important event, setting the stage for action (B) to take place.
- 結婚するに当たり、両親に挨拶に行った。In preparation for getting married, I went to formally greet our parents.
- 新生活のスタートにあたって、必要な家具をそろえた。As I began my new life, I got all the furniture I needed.
The second usage treats (A) as an objective or purpose, where (B) describes the necessary steps or actions taken to achieve it.
- 留学するに当たり、いくつかの注意点をご説明します。As you prepare to study abroad, I will explain a few important points.
- プロジェクトの開始にあたって、関係者を集めて会議を開いた。To kick off the project, we gathered all concerned parties for a meeting.
Caution
In contrast to に際して, which is suitable for both good and bad events, に当たり is almost exclusively reserved for positive or neutral occasions.
- 会社の倒産に際して、従業員への説明会が行われた。When the company went bankrupt, a briefing session was held for the employees. (Natural Japanese)
- 会社の倒産に当たって、従業員への説明会が行われた。When the company went bankrupt, a briefing session was held for the employees. (Unnatural Japanese)
Examples
お店を開くに当たり、多くの方々からお祝いをいただきました。
On the occasion of opening my store, I received congratulations from many people.
新しいプロジェクトを始めるに当たって、チーム全員でミーティングを行った。
When starting the new project, we held a meeting with all the team members. (at the time of)
結婚するに当たり、両親に挨拶に行った。
When we decided to get married, we went to greet our parents. (on the occasion of)
海外留学に当たり、ビザの取得など、いくつかの手続きが必要です。
Several procedures, such as obtaining a visa, are necessary when studying abroad.
スピーチを行うに当たって、何度も練習を重ねました。
I practiced over and over again in preparation for giving the speech.
家を建てるに当たり、銀行から融資を受けた。
When building our house, we received a loan from the bank. (at the time of)
会社の合併に当たって、社員への説明会が開かれた。
On the occasion of the company merger, an information session was held for the employees.
契約を結ぶに当たり、内容をよくご確認ください。
Please check the details carefully when signing the contract. (on the occasion of)
ローンの申し込みに当たり、いくつかの書類を準備する必要があった。
It was necessary to prepare several documents when applying for the loan.
イベントの開催に当たり、皆様のご協力をお願いいたします。
On the occasion of hosting this event, we ask for everyone's cooperation.
引っ越しをするに当たって、いらなくなった家具をたくさん捨てた。
At the time of moving, I threw away a lot of furniture I no longer needed.
新製品の発売に当たって、大々的なキャンペーンを実施した。
On the occasion of the new product launch, we carried out a massive campaign.