expression
undeserved honor; too great an honor
A humble set phrase used to express that an honor or recognition is more than one deserves. Often used in formal speeches or letters when receiving a compliment, award, or position.
このような賞をいただき、身に余る光栄です。
Receiving such an award is an honor I do not deserve.
身に余る光栄と存じます。
I consider it an honor far beyond my merits.
光栄 is a general noun meaning 'honor' or 'glory', while 身に余る光栄 is a fixed humble expression specifically for an honor one feels unworthy of.
恐縮 expresses a similar feeling of being undeserving or apologetic, but is broader and can be used for any situation where one feels indebted or sorry, not limited to honor.
A set phrase combining 身 (oneself), に (particle), 余る (to be more than, to exceed), and 光栄 (honor). The literal meaning is 'honor that exceeds oneself'.