Quick answer
前 is the kanji for "Before". It is a JLPT N5 kanji. The main reading is まえ (mae). Stroke-order practice is available below.
Meaning
Before
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
9 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
A boat with a knife at the prow cutting forward — the boat at front (the left radical) advances with the cutting blade leading, moving before everything else.
まえ (mae) sounds like "my way" — in front is my way forward.
Example Sentences
駅の前で友達を一時間待ちましたが、来ませんでした。
えきのまえでともだちをいちじかんまちましたが、きませんでした。
I waited for my friend in front of the station for an hour, but they never came.
駅の前で写真を撮りました。
えきのまえでしゃしんをとりました。
I took a photo in front of the station.
Vocabulary using 前
Grammar to study at this level
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
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