expression, noun
before one's eyes; in front of one; right in front
Refers to something physically present directly in front of the speaker or subject. Often used for things happening right there, or for a person standing nearby.
目の前で事故が起きた。
An accident happened right in front of my eyes.
彼は私の目の前に立っていた。
He was standing right in front of me.
expression, noun
immediate; imminent; just around the corner
Used for events or deadlines that are very close in time, often with a sense of urgency. Common in phrases like 目の前に迫る (to be imminent).
試験が目の前に迫っている。
The exam is imminent.
締め切りが目の前だ。
The deadline is right around the corner.
Compound of 目 (eye) + の (possessive particle) + 前 (front). Literally 'in front of the eyes', extended to temporal immediacy.