At the A1 level, learners focus on the most basic spatial and temporal uses of 'mae'. You learn to say 'in front of [noun]' using the pattern 'Noun + no + mae'. For example, 'kuruma no mae' (in front of the car). You also learn to use it with simple time durations like 'go-fun mae' (five minutes ago). The focus is on immediate physical surroundings and very recent past events. Learners at this stage should practice identifying objects in a room and describing their positions relative to each other using 'mae' and 'ushiro' (behind). The grammar is kept simple, usually ending in 'desu' or 'masu'.
At the A2 level, the usage expands to include the 'Verb (Dictionary Form) + mae ni' pattern. This allows you to sequence two actions, such as 'neru mae ni kusuri o nomimasu' (I take medicine before sleeping). You also begin to use 'mae' as a standalone noun to mean 'previously' (mae wa...). This level requires understanding that the verb before 'mae' does not change to past tense, even if the whole sentence is past tense. You also learn to use 'mae' with more complex time units like 'ni-shukan mae' (two weeks ago) and in social contexts like 'hito no mae' (in front of people).
By B1, you should be comfortable using 'mae' in more abstract contexts. This includes using it to describe historical periods or long-term past states. You will encounter 'mae' in formal compounds like 'go-zen' (A.M.) and 'zen-jitsu' (the previous day). The distinction between 'mae' and 'izen' becomes important here, as you start to read more formal texts. You also learn idiomatic uses like 'ichinin-mae' (a full portion or a full-fledged adult). B1 learners should be able to explain processes using 'mae ni', 'aida ni', and 'ato de' to show a clear timeline of events.
At the B2 level, 'mae' is used in nuanced expressions regarding social standing and responsibility. Phrases like 'mae-muki' (positive/forward-looking) and 'mae-uri' (advance sale) are common. You will also see 'mae' used in complex grammar structures like 'mae motte' (in advance/beforehand). The focus shifts to the psychological and metaphorical 'front', such as 'facing a problem' or 'moving forward in life'. You are expected to understand the difference between 'mae' and more literary terms like 'sen-pan' (the other day) or 'saki-datsu' (to precede).
C1 learners encounter 'mae' in classical literature and highly formal legal or academic documents. Here, the kanji 前 might be read as 'zen' in many compounds, and its meaning can extend to 'the aforementioned' (zen-ki). You will study the historical evolution of the kanji and its relationship to 'face' and 'honor'. The use of 'mae' in complex socio-linguistic structures, such as humble or honorific speech where one's 'presence' is referred to, becomes a focus. You should be able to distinguish between 'mae' and 'temae' (this side/from one's perspective) in high-level spatial reasoning.
At the C2 level, mastery of 'mae' involves understanding its most subtle poetic and philosophical implications. This includes its use in Zen Buddhism or traditional arts to describe the 'now' versus the 'before'. You will explore archaic uses found in the Manyoshu or Genji Monogatari where 'mae' (or its predecessor 'ma-he') had slightly different phonological and semantic boundaries. C2 speakers can use 'mae' with perfect precision in any register, from street slang to the most elevated imperial court language, and can appreciate the word's role in shaping the Japanese concept of time and space.

~前 در ۳۰ ثانیه

  • Mae indicates physical position 'in front of' an object or person, usually requiring the particle 'no' when following a noun (e.g., gakkou no mae).
  • Mae indicates time 'ago' when following a duration (e.g., ni-fun mae) or 'before' when following a verb dictionary form (e.g., neru mae).
  • When used with verbs, the verb must remain in the dictionary form, regardless of the tense of the main clause of the sentence.
  • Mae can also mean 'portion' or 'serving' in restaurant contexts (e.g., ichinin-mae) or refer to one's 'presence' in social situations.

The Japanese word ~前 (mae) is a fundamental building block of the language, serving as both a spatial and temporal marker. At its core, it signifies 'before' in terms of time and 'in front of' in terms of physical space. For English speakers, this dual nature is quite intuitive, as the English word 'before' can occasionally hint at position (e.g., 'the man before me'), though 'in front of' is more common for space. In Japanese, mae is used ubiquitously from the most basic daily conversations to complex academic discourse. Whether you are describing where you are meeting a friend or how many minutes ago something happened, mae is the essential term.

Spatial Usage
When used to describe location, it follows the pattern [Noun] + の + 前. For example, '駅の前' (eki no mae) means 'in front of the station'. It indicates the area directly facing the front of an object or building.

私は銀行の前で待っています。
(I am waiting in front of the bank.)

Temporal Usage (Relative Time)
When attached to a duration of time, it means 'ago'. For instance, '三日前' (mikka mae) means 'three days ago'. It looks back from the present moment or a specific reference point.

彼は五分前に出かけました。
(He left five minutes ago.)

Beyond these basics, mae also appears in social contexts, such as 'one's presence' or 'face'. For example, '人の前で' (hito no mae de) means 'in front of people' or 'in public'. It carries a weight of social expectation and behavior. In historical contexts, it can refer to 'the past' or 'previous' eras. The versatility of mae makes it one of the top 100 most important words for a beginner to master, as it anchors the speaker in both the physical world and the timeline of events. Understanding its nuances—such as when to use the particle 'no' and when it attaches directly to a counter—is key to sounding natural in Japanese.

Social Presence
Used to describe actions performed in the sight of others. 'みんなの前で話す' (speaking in front of everyone) implies a level of formality or public performance.

彼の目の前で事故が起きた。
(An accident happened right before his eyes.)

Using ~前 (mae) correctly requires attention to the particles that surround it. The most common structure for spatial reference is [Noun] + の + 前. This 'no' particle acts as a possessive or linking particle, essentially saying 'the front of [Noun]'. When describing where an action takes place, you add the particle 'de' (at/in), resulting in '~の前で'. If you are describing where something exists, you use 'ni' (at), resulting in '~の前に'.

Spatial Existence vs. Action
Use 'ni' for static location: '駅の前にポストがあります' (There is a mailbox in front of the station). Use 'de' for active events: '駅の前で友達に会いました' (I met a friend in front of the station).

テレビのに座ってください。
(Please sit in front of the TV.)

For temporal usage, mae can follow a noun directly or follow a verb in its dictionary form. When it follows a noun like 'test' or 'meal', it usually takes 'no': 'テストの前に' (before the test). When it follows a specific duration, the 'no' is omitted: '二時間前' (two hours ago). This distinction is vital for sounding like a native speaker. Furthermore, when used with a verb, the verb must always be in the non-past (dictionary) form, even if the entire sentence is in the past tense. This is because the action of the main verb happens relative to the 'before' state.

Verb Connection
Structure: [Verb Dictionary Form] + 前に. Example: '日本へ行く前に、日本語を勉強しました' (Before I went to Japan, I studied Japanese). Notice 'iku' is dictionary form even though the study happened in the past.

寝るに本を読みます。
(I read a book before going to bed.)

Finally, mae can be used as a standalone noun to mean 'the past' or 'previously'. In this case, it is often paired with 'wa': '前はここに公園がありました' (Before/Previously, there was a park here). This usage is common when comparing the present to a former state. It provides a temporal anchor for nostalgia or historical comparison. In formal settings, 'mae' might be replaced by 'izen', but 'mae' remains the standard for general conversation.

Standalone 'Mae'
Used as 'previously' or 'formerly'. '前はもっと安かったです' (It used to be cheaper before).

にも言いましたが、それはダメです。
(I told you before, but that's not allowed.)

In Japan, you will hear ~前 (mae) almost immediately upon arrival. Train stations are the primary environment for spatial 'mae'. Conductors announce which side the doors will open using 'mae' (though often 'temae' or 'saki' for more precision), and meeting points are almost always defined by their proximity to a station exit: 'ハチ公像の前' (In front of the Hachiko statue). If you are lost and asking for directions, people will frequently use 'mae' to guide you past landmarks: 'あのコンビニの前を右に曲がってください' (Please turn right in front of that convenience store).

Train Station Announcements
'次は、新宿、新宿。お出口は左側、ホームの前のほうです。' (Next is Shinjuku. Exit is on the left, towards the front of the platform.)

改札ので待ち合わせましょう。
(Let's meet in front of the ticket gate.)

In the workplace, 'mae' is used to discuss deadlines and schedules. A boss might ask for a report '会議の前に' (before the meeting). In a restaurant, the staff might tell you your food will be ready '十分前後に' (in about ten minutes - though 'go' is after, 'mae' is used in ranges). Interestingly, 'mae' also appears in the context of 'servings'. When you order food, you might hear '一人前' (one serving) or '二人前' (two servings). This is a specific counter usage of the kanji 前 that learners often encounter early on.

Restaurant Context
'寿司を二人前お願いします。' (Two servings of sushi, please.) Here, 'mae' refers to the portion size intended for a person.

仕事が始まるにコーヒーを飲みます。
(I drink coffee before work starts.)

Television and media use 'mae' constantly when recapping events. News anchors might say '三時間前、都内で...' (Three hours ago, in the city...). In anime or dramas, characters often reflect on their past using 'mae no koto' (things from before). It is a word that bridges the gap between the immediate physical surroundings and the abstract flow of time, making it indispensable for any learner trying to navigate Japanese society.

Media and News
'数日前に起きた事件について...' (Regarding the incident that occurred a few days ago...). This usage is standard for reporting chronological events.

ずっとから好きでした。
(I have liked you since a long time ago.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with ~前 (mae) is forgetting the particle の (no) when using it with nouns. In English, we say 'before the meeting', but in Japanese, you must say 'kaigi no mae'. Omitting the 'no' makes the sentence sound fragmented and grammatically incorrect. Another common error involves the verb tense used before 'mae'. As mentioned previously, learners often try to use the past tense (e.g., 'tabeta mae') because the event happened in the past. However, Japanese logic dictates that at the point of 'before', the action hasn't happened yet, so the dictionary form is required.

The 'No' Particle Omission
Incorrect: 学校前 (Gakkou mae) - sounds like a name of a bus stop. Correct: 学校の前 (Gakkou no mae) - in front of the school.

❌ 食べたに手を洗いました。
✅ 食べるに手を洗いました。
(Correct: I washed my hands before eating.)

Confusing mae with saki is another hurdle. While both can relate to 'ahead' or 'before', saki often refers to the future or a point further down a path, whereas mae is strictly 'in front' or 'ago'. For example, 'o-saki ni' means 'ahead of you' (going first), while 'mae ni' means 'previously'. Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 'mae' with 'uchi ni' (while/before). 'Mae' is a specific point in time, while 'uchi ni' emphasizes the window of opportunity before a change occurs.

Mae vs. Saki
'Mae' is behind you on a timeline (past) or directly in front of your face (space). 'Saki' is ahead of you on a timeline (future) or further down the road (space).

❌ 三分先に着きました。
✅ 三分前に着きました。
(Correct: I arrived three minutes ago.)

Lastly, be careful with the word 'mae-ni'. While it usually means 'before', in some contexts it can mean 'forward' (as in movement). 'Mae ni susumu' means 'to move forward'. Beginners often forget this directional aspect and focus only on the 'ago' or 'in front of' meanings. Always look at the verb following 'mae' to determine if it is a temporal marker or a directional instruction.

While ~前 (mae) is the most common way to express 'before', several alternatives exist depending on the level of formality and the specific nuance desired. Understanding these helps in transitioning from basic Japanese to more natural, varied speech. The most common formal alternative is 以前 (izen). While 'mae' is used for both space and time, 'izen' is strictly temporal and much more formal, often used in writing or professional speeches.

Mae vs. Izen
'Mae' is conversational and versatile. 'Izen' is formal and refers to 'before a certain point' or 'previously'. You wouldn't say 'eki no izen' for 'in front of the station'.

以前、ここに住んでいました。
(I lived here previously/formerly. - Formal)

Another word often confused with 'mae' is 先 (saki). As discussed in the mistakes section, 'saki' refers to what lies ahead. However, in the context of 'the person who went before me', you use 'saki' (o-saki ni). If you are talking about 'the previous page', you might use 'mae no peeji'. If you are talking about 'the upcoming page', you use 'saki no peeji'. This directional logic is a key difference.

Mae vs. Saki (Sequence)
'Mae' is behind in time (past) or in front in space. 'Saki' is ahead in time (future) or further in space. This can be very confusing for English speakers!

に失礼します。
(Excuse me for leaving before you/ahead of you.)

For spatial references, 正面 (shoumen) is a more specific term meaning 'directly in front' or 'the facade'. While 'mae' can be general, 'shoumen' specifically refers to the main front side of a building or object. If you are at a large stadium, you might specify 'shoumen guchi' (the main front entrance) rather than just 'mae'. Understanding these synonyms allows you to be more precise in your descriptions.

چقدر رسمی است؟

نکته جالب

The 'mae' in 'namae' (name) originally referred to the title or name presented 'in front' of a person to identify them to others.

راهنمای تلفظ

UK mæ.eɪ
US mɑ.eɪ
Flat pitch accent (Heiban). The pitch stays level across both syllables.
هم‌قافیه با
Namae (Name) Utae (Sing) Kanae (Grant) Sakae (Prosper) Tae (Endure) Hae (Fly) Osae (Restraint) Kamae (Posture)
خطاهای رایج
  • Pronouncing it like the English name 'May'.
  • Adding a 'y' sound between 'ma' and 'e' (ma-ye).
  • Stressing the first syllable too heavily.
  • Pronouncing the 'e' as a long 'ee' (ma-ee).
  • Shortening it to a single syllable.

سطح دشواری

خواندن 1/5

The kanji is very basic and learned early in elementary school.

نوشتن 2/5

The kanji has 9 strokes and is relatively easy to balance.

صحبت کردن 1/5

Pronunciation is simple, though pitch accent should be level.

گوش دادن 1/5

Very common word, easy to recognize in context.

بعداً چه یاد بگیریم؟

پیش‌نیازها

後 (Ato/Ushiro - After/Behind) の (No - Particle) 駅 (Eki - Station) 時 (Toki - Time) 分 (Pun/Fun - Minute)

بعداً یاد بگیرید

以前 (Izen - Previously) 先に (Saki ni - Ahead) 間に (Aida ni - During/While) うちに (Uchi ni - While/Before) 後で (Ato de - After)

پیشرفته

前途 (Zento - Future prospects) 前科 (Zenka - Criminal record) 前奏 (Zensou - Musical prelude) 前衛 (Zenei - Avant-garde) 前代 (Zendai - Previous generation)

گرامر لازم

Noun + の + 前

学校の前で待ちます。

Verb (Dictionary Form) + 前に

泳ぐ前に準備運動をする。

Duration + 前

二時間前に終わった。

前は (Contrastive)

前は安かったが、今は高い。

Noun + 前 (Pre-event)

震災前の写真。

مثال‌ها بر اساس سطح

1

駅の前にいます。

I am in front of the station.

Uses 'no mae' for spatial location.

2

テレビの前に猫がいます。

There is a cat in front of the TV.

Static existence with 'ni imasu'.

3

五分前に着きました。

I arrived five minutes ago.

Time duration + mae (no 'no' needed).

4

三日前に日本に来ました。

I came to Japan three days ago.

Days + mae.

5

車の前に立たないでください。

Please do not stand in front of the car.

Negative command with spatial mae.

6

銀行の前で会いましょう。

Let's meet in front of the bank.

Action location with 'de'.

7

一時間前に食べました。

I ate one hour ago.

Hours + mae.

8

机の前に椅子があります。

There is a chair in front of the desk.

Basic spatial relationship.

1

寝る前に歯を磨きます。

I brush my teeth before sleeping.

Verb (dictionary form) + mae ni.

2

食べる前に「いただきます」と言います。

We say 'Itadakimasu' before eating.

Verb + mae ni.

3

テストの前に勉強しました。

I studied before the test.

Noun + no + mae ni.

4

前はここに古い家がありました。

Before, there was an old house here.

Standalone 'mae' as 'previously'.

5

泳ぐ前に準備運動をします。

I do warm-up exercises before swimming.

Verb + mae ni.

6

出かける前に窓を閉めました。

I closed the window before going out.

Verb + mae ni (main verb is past).

7

一ヶ月前にこの本を買いました。

I bought this book one month ago.

Months + mae.

8

みんなの前で歌いました。

I sang in front of everyone.

Social 'mae'.

1

会議の前に資料を読んでおいてください。

Please read the materials before the meeting.

Noun + no + mae ni + preparation form.

2

彼は以前、この会社で働いていました。

He used to work at this company before (previously).

Using 'izen' as a formal alternative to 'mae'.

3

寿司を三人前注文しました。

I ordered three servings of sushi.

Counter 'mae' for servings.

4

十年前と比べて、町は変わりました。

Compared to ten years ago, the town has changed.

Time + mae + to kurabete.

5

結婚する前に、二人で旅行に行きたいです。

Before we get married, I want to go on a trip together.

Complex verb + mae ni.

6

名前を書く前に、説明をよく読んでください。

Before writing your name, please read the instructions carefully.

Instructional use of mae ni.

7

彼は一時間前、確かにここにいました。

He was certainly here one hour ago.

Emphasis on past time.

8

その話は、ずっと前から知っていました。

I have known that story since a long time ago.

Zutto mae kara (since long ago).

1

問題を解決する前に、原因を調査する必要があります。

Before solving the problem, it is necessary to investigate the cause.

Abstract problem-solving context.

2

彼は常に前向きな姿勢で仕事に取り組んでいる。

He always approaches his work with a forward-looking (positive) attitude.

Compound 'mae-muki' (positive).

3

チケットは一ヶ月前から前売りされています。

Tickets have been on advance sale since a month ago.

Compound 'mae-uri' (advance sale).

4

出発に先立ち、注意事項を説明します。

Prior to departure, I will explain the precautions.

Formal alternative 'ni sakidachi'.

5

彼女は人前で話すのがとても上手です。

She is very good at speaking in public.

Hito-mae (public presence).

6

契約を結ぶ前に、もう一度条件を確認しましょう。

Before signing the contract, let's check the conditions once more.

Formal business negotiation.

7

数年前までは、この辺りは田んぼばかりでした。

Until a few years ago, this area was nothing but rice fields.

Time + mae + made wa.

8

目の前で起きたことに、彼は言葉を失った。

He was speechless at what happened right before his eyes.

Me no mae (right before eyes).

1

前述の通り、この計画にはいくつかの課題があります。

As mentioned above (previously stated), there are several issues with this plan.

Zen-jutsu (aforementioned) - formal kanji use.

2

彼は一人前の料理人になるために、厳しい修行を積んだ。

He underwent rigorous training to become a full-fledged chef.

Idiomatic 'ichinin-mae' (full-fledged).

3

事態が深刻化する前に、適切な処置を講じるべきだった。

Appropriate measures should have been taken before the situation worsened.

Formal 'mae ni' with past regret.

4

この建物は、震災前の姿を今に留めている。

This building still retains its appearance from before the earthquake.

Noun + mae (pre-event state).

5

彼は自分の非を認めるのが、プライドが許さなかったのか、人の前では決して謝らなかった。

Perhaps his pride wouldn't let him admit his fault, but he never apologized in front of others.

Social 'hito no mae' in complex psychology.

6

前代未聞の不祥事に、世間は騒然となった。

The public was in an uproar over the unprecedented (unheard of before) scandal.

Idiom 'zen-dai-mi-mon'.

7

古来より、この山は神聖な場所として崇められてきた。

Since ancient times (before now), this mountain has been revered as a sacred place.

Temporal concept of 'anciently'.

8

彼は目前に迫った試験に備えて、必死に勉強している。

He is studying desperately in preparation for the exam looming right before him.

Moku-zen (right before one's eyes/imminent).

1

万葉の時代、人々は自然の中に神々の気配を感じ取っていた。

In the era of Manyo (long before), people perceived the presence of gods in nature.

Historical temporal reference.

2

彼の振る舞いは、まさに武士の鑑とも言うべき、見事な一人前であった。

His behavior was truly a model of a samurai, a magnificent example of a full-fledged man.

Elevated idiomatic use.

3

前非を悔い、新たな人生を歩み出す決意を固めた。

He repented for his past misdeeds and resolved to start a new life.

Zen-pi (past wrongs) - literary compound.

4

その光景は、言語に絶する美しさで、私の目の前に広がっていた。

The scene spread out before my eyes with a beauty that defied description.

Literary spatial description.

5

歴史の荒波を前にして、個人の力はいかにも無力である。

Faced with the turbulent waves of history, the power of an individual is utterly helpless.

Metaphorical 'mae' (facing something).

6

前代の遺産を継承しつつ、新たな価値を創造することが求められている。

It is required to create new value while inheriting the legacy of previous generations.

Zen-dai (previous generation).

7

彼は、死を目前にしても、その泰然自若とした態度を崩さなかった。

Even with death imminent (right before him), he did not lose his calm and composed attitude.

Moku-zen (imminent) in philosophical context.

8

空前絶後の大記録が、ついに打ち立てられた。

An unprecedented record (never before, never after) was finally established.

Idiom 'kuu-zen-zetsu-go'.

ترکیب‌های رایج

駅の前
三日前
寝る前に
目の前
一人前
食事の前に
ずっと前に
人前で
数分前
門の前

عبارات رایج

当たり前

— Natural, obvious, or a matter of course. It is used when something is expected.

そんなの当たり前だよ。(That's obvious.)

お前に

— To you (informal/rough). Used by males to peers or subordinates.

お前にこれをやるよ。(I'll give this to you.)

名前

— Name. Literally 'name-before' or 'the name in front'.

お名前は何ですか?(What is your name?)

前向き

— Positive or forward-looking. Used for attitudes or plans.

前向きに検討します。(We will consider it positively.)

前売り券

— Advance ticket. A ticket sold before the event starts.

前売り券を買いました。(I bought an advance ticket.)

以前から

— From before / for a long time. Formal way to say 'for a while'.

以前から知っていました。(I've known for a long time.)

前もって

— In advance / beforehand. Used for preparation.

前もって準備する。(Prepare in advance.)

三日前

— Three days ago. Standard way to count days back.

三日前に会った。(I met them three days ago.)

目の前

— Right in front of one's eyes. Indicates immediate proximity.

目の前で見た。(I saw it with my own eyes.)

一人前

— One serving / a full-fledged adult. Dual meaning.

彼はもう一人前だ。(He is a full-fledged adult now.)

اغلب اشتباه گرفته می‌شود با

~前 vs 先 (saki)

Saki means 'ahead' or 'future', while mae means 'in front' or 'past'. This is the most common confusion for learners.

~前 vs 以前 (izen)

Izen is only for time and is more formal. Mae is for both time and space.

~前 vs 手前 (temae)

Temae means 'just before' or 'this side of', whereas mae is a more general 'in front of'.

اصطلاحات و عبارات

"前代未聞"

— Unprecedented; unheard of. Something that has never happened before.

前代未聞の事件だ。

Formal
"空前絶後"

— The first and probably the last. Unique and unparalleled.

空前絶後の大ヒット。

Literary
"前途多難"

— A rocky road ahead; many difficulties in the future.

新事業は前途多難だ。

Neutral
"前途有望"

— Having a promising future. Often used for young people.

彼は前途有望な若者だ。

Neutral
"目の前が真っ暗になる"

— To lose all hope; to be stunned by bad news.

不合格で目の前が真っ暗になった。

Informal
"一人前になる"

— To become independent or a fully qualified professional.

早く一人前になりたい。

Neutral
"前非を悔いる"

— To repent for one's past mistakes.

彼は前非を悔いて謝った。

Literary
"前例がない"

— There is no precedent. Used in business and law.

そんな前例はありません。

Formal
"前置きが長い"

— The introduction is too long. Getting to the point slowly.

彼の話は前置きが長い。

Informal
"前借りをる"

— To get an advance on one's pay.

給料を前借りした。

Neutral

به‌راحتی اشتباه گرفته می‌شود

~前 vs 後 (ato)

Opposite meaning.

Mae is before/front; Ato is after/behind. In time, 'mae' is past, 'ato' is future.

三日前 (3 days ago) vs 三日後 (3 days later).

~前 vs 表 (omote)

Both mean 'front'.

Mae is relative position; Omote is the inherent front side of an object.

家の前 (in front of the house) vs 家の表 (the front facade of the house).

~前 vs 以前 (izen)

Both mean 'before'.

Izen is formal and temporal only. Mae is versatile and conversational.

以前住んでいた (I lived here before - formal) vs 前住んでいた (I lived here before - neutral).

~前 vs 先 (saki)

Both can mean 'preceding'.

Mae is 'ago' (relative to now). Saki is 'ahead' (relative to a sequence).

三分前 (3 mins ago) vs 三分先 (3 mins ahead/away).

~前 vs 手前 (temae)

Both mean 'in front'.

Temae is 'this side of' from the speaker's perspective. Mae is the front of the object itself.

交差点の手前 (Just before the intersection).

الگوهای جمله‌سازی

A1

[Noun] の 前 に [Noun] が あります。

駅の前にポストがあります。

A1

[Duration] 前 に [Verb-past]。

五分前に着きました。

A2

[Verb-dictionary] 前 に [Verb]。

食べる前に手を洗います。

A2

[Noun] の 前 に [Verb]。

テストの前に勉強します。

B1

前 は [Sentence] が、今は [Sentence]。

前は肉を食べましたが、今は食べません。

B1

[Noun] を [Number] 人前 お願いします。

ラーメンを二人前お願いします。

B2

[Noun] に 先立ち [Verb]。

出発に先立ち、挨拶をします。

C1

目前 に 迫る [Noun]。

目前に迫る危機。

خانواده کلمه

اسم‌ها

以前 (Izen - Previously)
前方 (Zenpou - Forward direction)
前座 (Zenza - Opening act)
前略 (Zenryaku - Dispensing with preliminaries)

فعل‌ها

前進する (Zenshin suru - To advance)
前倒しする (Maedaoshi suru - To move forward a schedule)

صفت‌ها

前向きな (Maemuki na - Positive)
前代未聞の (Zendaimimon no - Unprecedented)

مرتبط

午前 (Gozen - A.M.)
前半 (Zenpan - First half)
名前 (Namae - Name)
前売り (Maeuri - Advance sale)
手前 (Temae - This side)

نحوه استفاده

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation and writing.

اشتباهات رایج
  • Using past tense before 'mae ni'. Dictionary form before 'mae ni'.

    Learners say 'itta mae ni' (before I went), but it must be 'iku mae ni'.

  • Omitting 'no' with nouns. Noun + no + mae.

    Saying 'gakkou mae' instead of 'gakkou no mae'.

  • Using 'mae' for 'future' events. Use 'saki' or 'ato' for future.

    'Mae' is past time (ago) or physical front, not 'later' or 'ahead' in time.

  • Confusing 'mae' and 'izen' in spatial contexts. Use 'mae' for space.

    You cannot say 'eki no izen' for 'in front of the station'. 'Izen' is only for time.

  • Adding 'no' to time durations. Duration + mae (no 'no').

    Saying 'san-pun no mae' instead of 'san-pun mae'.

نکات

The 'No' Rule

Always use 'no' after a noun: 'Eki no mae'. Never say 'Eki mae' unless it's a specific proper noun like a bus stop name.

Ago vs. Before

For 'ago', just add 'mae' to the time: 'Go-fun mae'. For 'before [event]', use 'no mae': 'Kaigi no mae'.

Dictionary Form Only

Even if you are talking about the past, the verb before 'mae ni' must be in the dictionary form. 'Taberu mae ni' (before I ate/eat).

Public Presence

Use 'hito no mae de' to describe things you do in public. It carries a nuance of social awareness.

Servings

In restaurants, use 'mae' with numbers to order portions: 'Ichinin-mae' (one portion).

Spatial Precision

If you want to say 'just before' a landmark, use 'temae' instead of 'mae'.

Mae vs. Saki

Remember: Mae is 'past' (time) or 'front' (space). Saki is 'future' (time) or 'ahead' (space).

Kanji Balance

When writing the kanji 前, make sure the top part (the horns) is centered over the bottom parts.

Formal Situations

In business, use 'izen' or 'sakidachi' for a more professional tone than 'mae'.

Train Announcements

Listen for 'mae no hou' (toward the front) on train platforms to know where to stand.

حفظ کنید

روش یادسپاری

Imagine a 'Ma' (Mom) standing 'e' (in front) of you. Mom is always 'before' you in the family line.

تداعی تصویری

Picture a person standing in front of a giant clock. The space in front of them is 'mae', and the time they just passed is also 'mae'.

شبکه واژگان

Space Time Ago Front Before Serving Presence Advance

چالش

Try to use 'mae' in three different ways today: once for a location, once for 'ago', and once for 'before doing [verb]'.

ریشه کلمه

The kanji 前 (mae) originally depicted a foot above a boat, suggesting moving forward or the front of a vessel. Over time, it evolved to represent the general concept of 'front' or 'preceding'.

معنای اصلی: To move forward; the front part of a ship.

Sino-Japanese (On-yomi: Zen, Kun-yomi: Mae).

بافت فرهنگی

Be careful using 'omae' (you). Although it contains 'mae', it is very informal and can be rude.

English speakers often find the 'ago' vs 'before' distinction in Japanese simpler because 'mae' covers both, whereas English uses two different words.

The Hachiko statue 'mae' is the most famous meeting spot in Tokyo. The phrase 'Ichinin-mae' is a common theme in Shonen manga (becoming a man). The song 'Zutto Mae Kara' by French Kiss.

تمرین در زندگی واقعی

موقعیت‌های واقعی

Giving Directions

  • 銀行の前を右です。
  • 信号の手前で止まって。
  • 駅の前の道をまっすぐ。
  • ビルの前を通ります。

Daily Routine

  • 寝る前に本を読む。
  • 食べる前に手を洗う。
  • 出かける前に鍵を確認する。
  • 仕事の前にコーヒーを飲む。

Scheduling

  • 一時間前に着いた。
  • 会議の前に資料を作る。
  • 三日前に予約した。
  • テストの前に復習する。

Socializing

  • みんなの前で話す。
  • 彼の前では言えない。
  • 目の前で起きた。
  • 人前で恥をかく。

Restaurants

  • 二人前お願いします。
  • 食べる前に写真を撮る。
  • 店員さんの前で注文する。
  • 食事の前に飲み物を出す。

شروع‌کننده‌های مکالمه

"日本に来る前は、どこに住んでいましたか? (Where did you live before coming to Japan?)"

"寝る前に、いつも何をしますか? (What do you always do before going to bed?)"

"三日前、何を食べましたか? (What did you eat three days ago?)"

"駅の前にある新しいカフェに行きましたか? (Did you go to the new cafe in front of the station?)"

"人前で話すのは得意ですか? (Are you good at speaking in front of people?)"

موضوعات نگارش

一年前の自分と今の自分を比べて、何が変わりましたか? (Compare yourself from one year ago to now; what has changed?)

大切な試験の前に、あなたはどのように準備しますか? (How do you prepare before an important exam?)

子供の時、家の前には何がありましたか? (When you were a child, what was in front of your house?)

将来、一人前の大人として何をしたいですか? (In the future, what do you want to do as a full-fledged adult?)

十年前のあなたの夢は何でしたか? (What was your dream ten years ago?)

سوالات متداول

10 سوال

You need 'no' when 'mae' follows a noun (e.g., 'gakkou no mae'). You do NOT need 'no' when it follows a duration of time (e.g., 'ni-fun mae') or a verb dictionary form (e.g., 'taberu mae').

Generally, no. 'Mae' refers to the past (ago) or physical front. However, in phrases like 'mae-muki' (forward-looking), it implies a positive direction toward the future.

'Mae' is common, conversational, and works for both space and time. 'Izen' is formal, used mostly in writing or polite speech, and only refers to time.

In Japanese grammar, the time of the action before 'mae' is relative to the main action. Since the action hasn't happened yet at the point of 'before', the non-past (dictionary) form is used.

You say 'san-nen mae' (三年前). No particle 'no' is needed between the number/counter and 'mae'.

Yes, you can say 'mae ni mita koto ga arimasu'. Here, 'mae ni' acts as an adverb meaning 'previously'.

It means 'one serving' or 'a portion for one person'. 'Ni-nin-mae' would be two servings.

Yes, 'hito no mae' means 'in front of people'. It is used for public speaking or social situations.

'Temae' means 'this side of' or 'just before'. It is more specific than 'mae' and is often used in directions.

Yes, it acts as a suffix in time expressions (san-pun-mae) and servings (ichinin-mae).

خودت رو بسنج 180 سوال

writing

Translate: 'I am in front of the station.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I arrived five minutes ago.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'Before eating, I wash my hands.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I studied before the test.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'There is a cat in front of the TV.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'Previously, I lived in Tokyo.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I met him three days ago.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'Please read this before the meeting.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I ordered two servings of sushi.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I brush my teeth before sleeping.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'Let's meet in front of the bank.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I came to Japan one year ago.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I drink coffee before work.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'He left ten minutes ago.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I want to see it with my own eyes (right before me).'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'Before, it was cheap, but now it is expensive.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I bought this book two weeks ago.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'Please wait in front of the gate.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I have known her since a long time ago.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
writing

Translate: 'I do exercises before swimming.'

خوب نوشتید! تلاش خوبی بود! پاسخ نمونه را ببینید.

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Describe where you are meeting a friend using 'mae'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say what you do before going to bed.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Tell someone when you arrived at the current location.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Explain a rule about washing hands before a meal.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Describe a change in your life using 'mae wa'.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Order two servings of ramen.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Tell someone not to stand in front of the TV.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say you've known a fact for a long time.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Ask someone what they did three days ago.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Give a direction using a landmark.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say you are nervous about speaking in public.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say you bought something one month ago.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Tell someone to check their bag before leaving.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say there is a park in front of your house.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say you finished your homework five minutes ago.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Ask for one serving of gyoza.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say you saw a movie two weeks ago.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say you studied hard before the exam.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Tell someone you'll be there in 10 minutes (using ago/before context).

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
speaking

Say you were here before.

این را بلند بخوانید:

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '駅の前のコンビニで待ってるね。' Where is the person waiting?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '五分前にバスが行っちゃったよ。' When did the bus leave?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '食べる前に手を洗ってね。' What should you do before eating?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '三日前に予約した田中です。' When did Tanaka make the reservation?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '会議の前にこの資料に目を通しておいて。' When should you look at the materials?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '寿司を三人前お願いします。' How many servings of sushi were ordered?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '前はここ、静かだったんだけどね。' What was this place like before?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '寝る前にコーヒーを飲むと眠れないよ。' What happens if you drink coffee before bed?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '目の前で事故が起きてびっくりした。' Where did the accident happen?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '十分前に電話したんだけど、出なかったね。' When did the person call?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '出かける前に窓を閉めた?' What is the person asking about?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '一年前より日本語が上手になったね。' Compared to when has the Japanese improved?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '人前で話すのは慣れていません。' What is the person not used to?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: '信号の手前で降ろしてください。' Where does the person want to get off?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
listening

Transcript: 'ずっと前から君のことが好きだった。' How long has the person liked the other?

درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:
درسته! نه دقیقاً. پاسخ صحیح:

/ 180 درست

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