上に
JLPT Level: N2
Meanings
As well
Besides
In addition to
Usage
Noun + の上に
い-adjective + 上に
Verb (dictionary form) + 上に
Clause + 上に
Explanation
上に is used to add information about an existing situation, similar to saying “in addition to,” “besides,” or “not only... but also.” It links two or more facts, often emphasizing that the second fact adds to what has already been stated. It can be used after a noun (Nの上に), after an い-adjective or noun phrases (い-adjective + 上に), or after a verb clause (V dictionary form + 上に). It is common in formal or written contexts and often conveys a sense of further reason or consequence beyond what was previously mentioned.
彼は頭がいい上に、スポーツも得意だ。
かれはあたまがいいうえに、スポーツもとくいだ。
Not only is he smart, but he's also good at sports.
この商品は安い上に、品質も高い。
このしょうひんはやすいうえに、ひんしつもたかい。
In addition to being inexpensive, the quality is high.
経験豊富な上に、彼は責任感が強い。
けいけんほうふなうえに、かれはせきにんかんがつよい。
Moreover, he is experienced, and he is responsible.
雨が降っている上に風も強い。
あめがふっているうえにかぜもつよい。
On top of that, it's raining and the wind is strong.
学費は高い上に、教科書代もかかる。
がくひはたかいうえに、きょうかしょだいもかかる。
Besides, tuition is expensive and the cost of textbooks is extra.