Translation guide
The English word "above" can indicate a higher physical position, a higher rank or level, or refer to something mentioned earlier in a text. Japanese uses different words and patterns for each meaning.
Describing something located at a higher place than something else, without direct contact.
The most common word for 'above'. It is a noun meaning 'the space above' or 'on top of'. Use it with the particle に or で.
There is a book above the desk.
頭の上を鳥が飛んでいた。
A bird was flying above my head.
A more formal or technical term for 'upper direction' or 'above'. Often used in written descriptions or instructions.
画面の上方にメニューが表示されます。
The menu is displayed above the screen.
Means 'directly above' or 'right above'. Emphasizes that something is exactly overhead.
私たちの真上を飛行機が通過した。
An airplane passed directly above us.
Indicating a superior position in a hierarchy, a higher numerical value, or exceeding a standard.
Also used for abstract 'above' in rank or status. Often appears in the pattern 〜の上.
彼は私より上の役職です。
He holds a position above mine.
この問題は私の理解の上です。
This problem is above my understanding.
Means 'above' in the sense of 'more than' or 'exceeding' a number or standard. Commonly used with quantities.
A verb meaning 'to exceed' or 'to go above'. Used when something surpasses a limit or expectation.
Refers to a higher rank or upper tier, often in rankings or lists.
Referring to something mentioned previously in the same piece of writing.
A formal term meaning 'above-mentioned' or 'the above'. Used in documents, emails, and official writing.
上記の通り、会議は延期されました。
As stated above, the meeting has been postponed.
Means 'aforementioned' or 'previously stated'. Very common in formal writing.
A slightly less formal phrase meaning 'as mentioned above'. Literally 'stated above'.
上で述べたように、この方法が最も効果的です。
As mentioned above, this method is the most effective.
Describing something in the air or sky above, often with a sense of expanse.
Means 'the sky above' or 'overhead'. Used for things like aircraft, clouds, or celestial bodies.
上空に虹がかかっていた。
A rainbow appeared above in the sky.
Literally 'above one's head'. Used when something is directly overhead.
頭上に星が輝いていた。
Stars were shining above our heads.
While 上 can mean 'above' physically or in rank, it is not used to refer to earlier parts of a text. For that, use 上記 (じょうき) or 前述 (ぜんじゅつ).
上記の住所に送ってください。
Please send it to the address above.
上 (うえ) indicates a relative position (physical or abstract), while 以上 (いじょう) indicates a numerical or quantitative threshold. Use 以上 for 'more than' or 'at least'.
棚の上に置いてください。
Please put it on the shelf above.
10人以上の参加者が来た。
More than 10 participants came.
People above 18 years old can vote.
気温が30度以上になった。
The temperature rose above 30 degrees.
The results were above expectations.
He is always in the upper ranks of the class.
前述の理由により、計画は中止となった。
For the reasons mentioned above, the plan was canceled.