手前
JLPT Level: N2
Meanings
before, in front of
in one’s presence or sight
from one’s standpoint or position
in one’s own case or situation
Usage
Noun + の手前
手前で
手前を
Explanation
手前 has several related uses. It can mean being physically in front of someone (in their presence) or in front of them in a literal sense, but it is also used to refer to one’s own position or perspective in a situation. When you say something "in someone’s手前" you’re indicating that you are doing or not doing something within that person’s presence or impact, often carrying a sense of accountability or propriety. It can also express something done from one’s own standpoint or “in my/our position.” The nuance often implies consideration of others’ feelings or the social context, especially in formal or polite speech.
彼の手前、嘘はつけない。
かれのてまえ、うそはつけない。
I can’t lie in front of him.
私の手前、これ以上は話せません。
わたしのてまえ、これいじょうははなせません。
In my case, I can’t talk about this any further.
会議中、手前の席から発言を求められた。
かいぎちゅう、てまえのせきからはつげんをもとめられた。
From my seat, I was asked to speak during the meeting.
この手前、私にはその提案を受け入れる余地がない。
このてまえ、わたしにはそのていあんをうけいれるよちがない。
In my position, I have no room to accept that proposal.