Translation guide
How to express the idea of moving in front of someone or something, or gaining an advantage over others, in Japanese.
To move so that you are in front of someone or something, such as in a line or on a path.
A natural way to say 'go ahead' or 'get ahead of' someone physically. Often used when you want to move in front of someone.
先に行ってもいいですか？
May I go ahead of you?
彼は私より先に行った。
He got ahead of me.
To get ahead of others in a competitive sense, such as in work, studies, or business.
To take action early to prevent a future issue or to stay ahead of a situation.
A set phrase meaning 'to take the initiative' or 'to make a preemptive move'. Used when you act before a problem arises.
問題が大きくなる前に先手を打った。
We got ahead of the problem before it grew.
Means 'to overtake' or 'to pass' someone, especially while driving or running. Implies moving from behind to ahead.
トラックを追い越した。
I got ahead of the truck.
Similar to 追い越す, but more casual. Often used in sports or driving.
前の車を抜かした。
I passed the car ahead.
A somewhat formal verb meaning 'to get ahead of' or 'to forestall' others. Often used in business or strategic contexts.
競合他社に先んじて新製品を発売した。
We got ahead of our competitors by launching the new product.
Literally 'go one step ahead'. A common expression for being ahead of the curve or having an edge.
彼はいつも一歩先を行っている。
He is always one step ahead.
Means 'to outwit' or 'to steal a march on' someone. Has a nuance of doing something before someone else to gain an advantage, sometimes slyly.
彼に出し抜かれた。
He got ahead of me (by acting first).
A straightforward phrase meaning 'to deal with something in advance'. More formal and explanatory.
リスクに事前に対処することが重要だ。
It's important to get ahead of risks.