〜こととて
Formation
Meaning
Used to express a reason or excuse, especially when apologizing or asking for forgiveness. It implies that given the circumstances, a certain outcome or behavior was somewhat unavoidable.
Note
A formal and somewhat old-fashioned/literary expression used to state a reason or external circumstance. It is almost exclusively used in formal apologies, explanations, or letters where the speaker is asking for the listener's understanding ('Given that X is the case, please forgive Y'). It combines 'こと' (nominalizer) and 'とて' (an archaic particle meaning 'as' or 'even if').
Examples
知らぬこととて、大変失礼いたしました。
Since I did not know, I was very rude. (Please forgive me.)
子供のしたこととて, どうかお許しください。
Since it was something a child did, please forgive them.
狭いこととて、十分なおもてなしもできませんが、ご勘弁ください。
Because it is cramped, I cannot provide sufficient hospitality, but please forgive me.
遠いこととて、すぐには伺えませんが、必ず参ります。
Because it is far, I cannot visit immediately, but I will surely come.
不慣れなこととて、ご迷惑をおかけしました。
Because I am inexperienced, I have caused you trouble.
急なこととて、十分なおもてなしもできず申し訳ございません。
Because it was so sudden, I apologize for not being able to provide sufficient hospitality.
田舎のこととて、何もございませんが、ごゆっくりなさってください。
Since this is the countryside, we have nothing to offer, but please make yourself at home.
休み中のこととて、返信が遅れてしまい申し訳ありません。
Since it was during the holidays, I apologize for the delay in my reply.