noun
the former; the first (of two)
Used when comparing two previously mentioned items, referring to the first one. Often paired with 後者 (こうしゃ, 'the latter').
See also: 後者
A案とB案では、前者のほうが現実的だ。
Between Plan A and Plan B, the former is more realistic.
前者は後者よりコストが低い。
The former costs less than the latter.