This phrase is used when someone has been kept waiting, expressing apology for the delay and often gratitude for their patience. It's common in service industries, at reception desks, or when meeting someone who arrived before you. Example: "大変お待たせいたしました、どうぞこちらへ。" (Thank you for waiting, please come this way.)

相手を待たせたことへの謝罪と感謝。サービス業や待ち合わせでよく使われます。例：「大変お待たせいたしました。」