手前 literally means 'in front of' or 'before', but as a grammar pattern it expresses the idea that because of what one has said, promised, or committed to, one must act accordingly. It conveys a sense of obligation or self-awareness about one's own social position or face. For example, if you have boasted about your skills, you feel compelled to perform well because of that boast. The nuance is often 'out of consideration for my reputation' or 'given that I said that'.

As a noun, 手前 can also refer to a point just before reaching something, like 'just before the station'. This usage is more literal and spatial.

The pattern is often used in situations where one feels they cannot back down because of what they have already said or done. It is a formal and somewhat literary expression, common in written narratives, speeches, or formal conversations, but not in casual chat.