Grammar Info

N2 Lesson 2: 12/24

手前(てまえ)

Before, In front of, From one's standpoint or side

Structure

Verb + 手前(てまえ)
Noun + + 手前(てまえ)

Details

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About 手前

The noun 手前(てまえ) 'in front of' has several different meanings in Japanese depending on whether it is being used with a verb in its standard form, or with a noun.

Regarding verbs, it expresses 'going forward from (A), (B)'. This is usually in relation to something that has happened either accidentally or completely, and may represent what will be done as a result of being in that situation.

This can also be interpreted as 'now that (A), (B)', and simply highlights that nothing can be done except to move on or 'forward' given the current circumstances.

When 手前(てまえ) appears with nouns followed by the case marking particle の, it often expresses that what is 'in front' of (A) is the reason for (B), or simply is 'in front of (B)'.

Despite the many translations, 手前(てまえ) always shows something that is 'facing' the noun or verb that appears with it. Due to this, thinking of this structure as similar to 'faced with (A), (B)' may be helpful, as English also expresses lack of option and finality in this way.

Examples

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    あなた手前(てまえ)にあるものを()てください。

    Please look at the thing that is in front of you.

    オルガンをもっと手前(てまえ)配置(はいち)してください。

    Please position the organ even more in front.

    ()んでしまう一歩(いっぽ)手前(てまえ)(たす)かった。

    I was helped just before I would have died. (on the brink)

    (わたし)手前(てまえ)(ひと)が、(わたし)友達(ともだち)です。

    The person in front of me is my friend.

    火山(かざん)被害(ひがい)がうち手前(てまえ)まで(およ)んだ。

    The damage from the volcano extended to right in front of my house.

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