Contents
Explanation：〜手前
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Used to indicate that, due to a certain situation, or out of concern for appearances, someone is compelled to act in a particular way. It often conveys the idea that the speaker is doing something because they feel they must maintain a certain image, reputation, or sense of responsibility. In English, it can be translated as "because of," "for the sake of appearances," or "considering."
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V（dictionary form / ta form / teiru form） てまえ
Nの + てまえ
※ Nは人に関係のある単語が来ます。
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- Out of Concern for Appearances: This expression is used when someone acts a certain way to avoid losing face or to maintain their reputation.
- Motivated by a Situation: It implies that the person feels compelled to act because of a situation they are aware of or due to social pressure.
- Personal Responsibility: It often implies a sense of duty or obligation to behave in a certain way based on expectations or one's own prior actions.
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N1
Sample sentenes
1. Acting for the Sake of Appearances
This usage emphasizes acting in a way to maintain one's reputation or avoid criticism.
息子が見ている手前、かっこ悪い姿を見せるわけにはいかない。
With my son watching, I can't afford to show a bad performance.
彼女の手前、試合でかっこ悪いところを見せるわけにはいかない。
In front of her, I can't show a poor performance in the match.
2. Because of a Previous Action
This usage conveys that because the speaker has done something, they feel obligated to follow through or behave in a certain way.
自分から誘ってしまった手前、今さらやっぱりやめておこうなんて言えない。
Since I was the one who invited them, I can't now say I want to cancel.
「私も行きたい」と言ってしまった手前、今さら、やっぱりキャンセルしたいなんて言えない。
Since I said I also wanted to go, I can't now say I want to cancel.
夫がCanonに勤めている手前、他のメーカーのカメラが欲しいなんて言えない。
Given that my husband works for Canon, I can't say I want a camera from another manufacturer.
何でもいいと言ってしまった手前、彼女がくれたプレゼントが気に入らなかったなんて言えない。
Since I said anything was fine, I can't say now that I don't like the gift she gave me.
