priekyje

Priekyje is a Lithuanian adverb meaning “in front” or “ahead.” It is used to describe spatial position relative to another reference point, as well as position within a sequence, such as the head or front of a line. The word derives from the noun priekis (front) and uses the locative suffix -je. In sentences it often accompanies another noun or pronoun to specify what is in front of what, for example in phrases like priekyje mūsų (in front of us).

Common usages include describing physical positioning, movement, or standing order. For instance, automobilis stovėjo priekyje mūsų would translate as “The car stood in front of us.” In the context of a queue, you might hear or see: eilėje priekyje stovėjo moteris (a woman stood at the front of the line). In sports or competitions, priekyje can indicate being in the lead, as in lenktynėse jis buvo priekyje (in the race, he was in front).

Priekyje contrasts with phrases indicating behind or at the rear, such as už nugaros or už nelys, and is commonly used across spoken and written Lithuanian. It can function flexibly with different referents, from people and objects to groups and lineups, to convey who or what is ahead in a given context.

In English translation, priekyje corresponds to “in front of,” “at the front,” or “in the lead,” depending on the context. The term is a standard part of everyday Lithuanian vocabulary for describing position, order, and progress.