1.
front line, forefront, cutting edge
The most forward position in a conflict, or figuratively, the leading edge of a field, industry, or area of activity. Used both in military and metaphorical contexts.
Usage
最前線 is used both literally (military front lines) and figuratively (the forefront of a field or effort). The figurative usage is more common in everyday Japanese.
Common collocations
- 最前線に立つ: to stand at the forefront
- 最前線で働く: to work on the front lines
- 最前線で活躍する: to be active at the forefront
- 技術の最前線: the cutting edge of technology
- 現場の最前線: the front lines of the field