手前
Before, In front of, From one's standpoint or side
Structure
Noun + の + 手前
Explanation
The noun 手前 'in front of' has distinct uses in Japanese depending on whether it follows a verb in its standard form, or a noun.
In connection with verbs, it conveys that because situation (A) has occurred, action (B) is the necessary result. This often relates to a sense of social duty or a situation where backing down is not an option due to a prior action or commitment.
- ゴールする手前で転んでしまった。I tripped and fell just before reaching the finish line.
- 絶対に勝つと言ってしまった手前、簡単には負けられない。Now that I've said I'll definitely win, I can't just lose so easily.
- 親友にお金を借りた手前、無駄遣いはできない。Since I borrowed money from my best friend, I can't afford to waste any of it.
This usage can be interpreted as 'now that (A), (B)', highlighting that the circumstances leave no choice but to move forward with a particular action.
When 手前 follows a noun with the case marking particle の, it typically means that the presence of person (A) is the motive for action (B), often to protect one's reputation or image.
- 後輩たちの手前、弱音を吐くわけにはいかない。I can't show any weakness in front of my juniors.
- ご近所さんの手前、毎朝ちゃんと掃除している。With the neighbors around, I make sure to clean properly every morning.
Despite the different translations, 手前 always indicates that one is 'confronted' by the noun or verb it is paired with. For this reason, conceptualizing the structure as 'faced with (A), I must do (B)' can be helpful, as this English phrasing also implies a lack of choice and a necessary outcome.
Examples
机の手前に置いてある椅子を使ってください。
Please use the chair that's placed in front of the desk.
横断歩道の手前で車を止めてください。
Please stop the car just before the crosswalk.
合格発表の手前で、とても緊張しました。
I got very nervous right before the results were announced.
その喫茶店は駅の手前の角にあります。
That coffee shop is on the corner just before the station.
ゴールはあの橋の手前です。
The finish line is just before that bridge.
約束した手前、今更断れない。
Having promised, I can't back out now.
自分の番の手前になって、急に心臓がドキドキしてきた。
My heart suddenly started pounding right before it was my turn.
試験に落ちる一歩手前だったが、何とか合格できた。
I was on the verge of failing the exam, but I somehow managed to pass.
手前のドアからお入りください。
Please enter through the door at the front.
店長という手前、スタッフの失敗は私の責任です。
As I am the manager, my staff's mistakes are my responsibility.
銀行の手前に郵便ポストがあります。
There is a mailbox right before the bank.
写真を撮るから、もう少し手前に来て。
I'm taking a picture, so come a little closer to the front.