How to say "above" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 上うえno-adjectiveThe basic word for spatial 'above': something physically higher than or over something else, as with a picture above a shelf or clouds overhead. It also covers things sitting on top of a surface.
- 上記じょうきno-adjectiveThe 'above' of writing: refers to what was mentioned earlier in the same text or document — 'the above address', 'the above-mentioned items'. Use this in emails, forms and reports, not for physical position.
- 前記ぜんきno-adjective, suru verb, transitive verbA close counterpart of 上記 for 'the above' in a text; its English equivalents 'aforesaid' and 'said' point to formal, legal-style documents. For ordinary writing, 上記 is the safer choice.
- 上じょうsuffixThe Chinese-derived reading of 上, found in set compounds for 'on/above' — a top surface, or being aboard a ship or vehicle. On its own it is not how you say 'above'; use 上（うえ）.
- 以上いじょうnoun (suffix)'Above' in the quantitative sense: more than a stated number or amount, as in ages, prices or scores. It also means 'beyond' — further than, say, one's expectations.
For physical position use 上（うえ）; for 'the above' in a text use 上記 (前記 in formal, legal-style writing); 上（じょう） lives in set compounds; 以上 handles numbers and amounts exceeded.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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