直前

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 直前 is read as ちょくぜん and means immediately before or last minute.
• Basic usage: It can mark the moment just before departure or the period immediately before an exam.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Just before departure
  • 直前: I noticed I had forgotten something just before departure. Example: 出発の直前に忘れ物に気づいた。
• Immediately before an exam
  • 直前: Prepare early so you do not panic immediately before the exam. Example: 試験直前になって慌てないよう、早めに準備する。