noun
Refers to the first installment of a serialized work, such as a book, film, or series. Often contrasted with 後編 (latter part).
See also: 後編
この映画の前編は来月公開される。
The first part of this movie will be released next month.
小説の前編だけ読んだ。
I only read the first volume of the novel.
noun
Used for a work that is set before the events of an existing story. Less common than the 'first part' sense; often specified as 前日譚.
See also: 前日譚
このゲームは人気シリーズの前編にあたる。
This game serves as a prequel to the popular series.
Compound of 前 (zen, 'before') and 編 (hen, 'volume' or 'chapter'). The kanji 編 is standard; 篇 is a variant.