What it means
にあたって marks a significant occasion or point at which an important action is carried out. It is used with nouns and dictionary-form verbs, and often introduces preparation, procedures, or guidance for a major event, change, or undertaking. The expression is formal and is especially common in announcements, instructions, speeches, and written language.
Usage note
にあたって is more formal than ordinary expressions such as ときに or 際に, so it is not normally used for casual everyday events. It commonly refers to a meaningful transition or undertaking rather than a simple moment in time.
How to use it
入学にあたって、必要な書類を提出しました。
On enrolling, I submitted the necessary documents.
研究を始めるにあたって、詳細な計画を作成しました。
When beginning the research, I created a detailed plan.
入学にあたって、必要な書類を提出した。
On enrolling, I submitted the necessary documents.
研究を始めるにあたって、詳細な計画を作成した。
When beginning the research, I created a detailed plan.