1.
one's own, self-supplied, self-provided
Something that one owns, produces, or provides oneself, rather than borrowing, renting, or relying on others. Often used as a modifier with の.
自前のパソコンを使っている。
I'm using my own personal computer.
この会社は自前の工場を持っている。
This company has its own factory.
外部に頼らず自前の技術で開発することにこだわっている。
They insist on developing things with their own technology without relying on external sources.
2.
at one's own expense, self-funded
Paying for something out of one's own pocket rather than having it provided or subsidized.
交通費は自前だ。
Transportation costs are out of one's own pocket.
衣装は自前で用意してください。
Please prepare costumes at your own expense.
会社の経費ではなく自前で資格を取得したので、達成感がある。
I got the qualification at my own expense rather than on the company's budget, so there's a real sense of achievement.
USAGE NOTE:
Often used as a modifier: 自前の + noun. Emphasizes self-reliance and independence. The word carries a positive connotation of self-sufficiency.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 自前の (one's own ~)
- 自前で用意する (prepare/provide oneself)
- 自前で調達する (procure on one's own)
- 自前主義 (self-reliance principle)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 自費: at one's own expense (more formal, specifically about money)
- 自家製: homemade (specifically about making/producing something)