前ぜん編ぺん

noun

first part; first volume

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

• この映えい画がの前ぜん編ぺんは来らい月げつ公こう開かいされる。

  The first part of this movie will be released next month.

• 小しょう説せつの前ぜん編ぺんだけ読よんだ。

  I only read the first volume of the novel.

noun

prequel

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

• このゲームは人にん気きシリーズの前ぜん編ぺんにあたる。

  This game serves as a prequel to the popular series.