前者

• Reading: ぜんしゃ
• Romaji: zensha
• Kanji breakdown: 前 (zen) — before, front; 者 (sha) — person, thing
• Pronunciation: /ze.n.ɕa/

Meaning

The former; the first-mentioned. Used when comparing two things to refer back to the first one.

A noun used in written and formal spoken Japanese to refer to the first of two previously mentioned items. Always paired conceptually with 後者 (kousha, the latter). Essential in academic writing, essays, and formal discussions when drawing comparisons.

Examples

1. コーヒーと紅茶では前者のほうが好きだ。 Between coffee and tea, I prefer the former.
2. 前者は安いが、後者は品質が良い。 The former is cheaper, but the latter has better quality.
3. 二つの案を比べて前者を選んだ。 After comparing the two proposals, I chose the former.

Usage Guide

Context: academic writing, essays, formal discussion

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 前 (zen, before/front) and 者 (sha, person/thing). Literally 'the one before,' used to reference the first-mentioned of two items.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated