Japanese grammar
What does ～うえで mean? Japanese grammar N2
～うえで means after doing A, then B (A is a precondition); or: in terms of, when it comes to.
| Level (estimated, JLPT framework) | N2 |
|---|---|
| Structure | Vた + 上で Nの + 上で Vる + 上で (aspect) |
| Romaji | uede |
| Meaning | after doing A, then B (A is a precondition); or: in terms of, when it comes to |
Forming it
| Aspect | 仕事 + の + 上で／生きる + 上で |
|---|---|
| Premise | 確認した + 上で |
How to use it
Does A first as a basis/premise before doing B; or states the aspect or process of something.
- Meaning (1): 「Vた + 上で」 states that A is completed as a STEP/premise before B is carried out: "after doing..., then...". Emphasizes that A is the basis for decision B.
- Meaning (2): 「Vる/Nの + 上で」 means "in terms of, in the process of doing something": 生きる上で (in life), 仕事の上で (in terms of work).
- Distinguish by form: 「Vた上で」 = sequence; 「Vる/Nの上で」 = aspect.
Examples
内容を確認した上で、署名してください。
Please sign after confirming the contents.
仕事の上で、信頼はとても大切だ。
In terms of work, trust is very important.
Keep in mind
- For the sequential meaning, A must be a deliberate action done first on purpose.
- Different from 「てから」 (a simple sequence): 「上で」 emphasizes A as the basis for a decision.
Common mistakes
-
Wrong確認する上で、署名してください。
After you finish checking, please sign.
Correct確認した上で、署名してください。
The meaning "after doing A, then" uses 「Vた上で」 (確認した), not the dictionary form.
-
Wrong生きた上で、健康は大切だ。
In terms of living, health is important.
Correct生きる上で、健康は大切だ。
The meaning "in terms of/in the process of" uses 「Vる上で」 (生きる上で), not 「Vた」.
Exam tips
- 「Vた上で」 = after doing..., then (premise); 「Vる/Nの上で」 = in terms of.