WORD DETAIL
手前
てまえ
Examples
Included kanji
Study notes
1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning
- Structure:
手前is read asてまえand can mean “before” or “in front of oneself”, depending on context. - Basic usage: The examples show a point before a bridge and a dish pulled closer to oneself.
2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions
- Distinguishing senses and uses
- It marks a point before a landmark or the near side toward the speaker;
橋の手前means before reaching or crossing the bridge.
- It marks a point before a landmark or the near side toward the speaker;