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.