Structure
Verb + 手前
Noun + の + 手前
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About 手前
The noun 手前 '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 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 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.
Synonyms
Examples
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あなたの手前にあるものを見てください。
Please look at the thing that is in front of you.
オルガンをもっと手前に配置してください。
Please position the organ even more in front.
死んでしまう一歩手前で助かった。
I was helped just before I would have died. (on the brink)
私の手前の人が、私の友達です。
The person in front of me is my friend.
火山の被害がうちの手前まで及んだ。
The damage from the volcano extended to right in front of my house.
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