Verb (ている / dictionary form) + ところを

[While (in the act of) / Despite being (in a state)]

Connection: Verb (ている / dictionary form) + ところを

Usage 1: Expresses being caught or interrupted while in the middle of doing something. Often used with verbs like 見つかる, 捕まる.

Usage 2: Used in polite expressions to apologize for interrupting someone. お忙しいところを… (While you are busy…)

Examples:

カンニングしているところを先生に見つかった。(I was caught cheating by the teacher.)

お忙しいところをすみませんが、少しお時間いただけますか。(I'm sorry to bother you while you're busy, but could I have a moment of your time?)

逃げようとしたところを警察に捕まった。(He was caught by the police while trying to escape.)