1.
front; forward; ahead
The area or direction in front of something or someone. A somewhat formal word for the space ahead.
前方に注意してください。
Please watch ahead.
前方に大きな橋が見えてきた。
A large bridge came into view ahead.
車の前方に子どもが飛び出してきたので、急ブレーキをかけた。
A child jumped out in front of the car, so I slammed on the brakes.
前方 is a formal word for 'ahead' or 'in front.' More formal than 前, and commonly used in driving, announcements, and written instructions.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 前方不注意: failure to watch ahead (common traffic violation)
- 前方確認: forward check (driving safety)
- 前方に注意: watch ahead
- 前方後方: front and back
DIRECTION SET:
- 前方: front, ahead
- 後方: rear, behind
- 左方: left side
- 右方: right side
CONTRAST WITH 前:
前 is everyday and casual. 前方 is formal and often technical — used in traffic reports, announcements, and official instructions.