N478/179

以上 ①

Noun + 以上...以上(

Meanings

  • More than or equal to
  • Over; above
  • Anything over; greater than
  • Exceeding

About this pattern

Explanation

以上 is used after numbers, quantities, or measurements to mean “not less than” or “more than.” It emphasizes that the value is at least the stated amount and can imply that it is greater or equal to that amount. It is common in both written and spoken language for formal statements, comparisons, prices, time durations, and limits. When used with time expressions, 以上 conveys “more than X days,” “the past X years, and so on.” It does not require anything after 以上 to indicate a maximum; it sets a lower bound. Be mindful that 以上 can feel formal; in casual speech you might hear より or 以上の is used in written notices, announcements, or when giving instructions.

Learn in context

Example sentences

日本には100人以上の学生が来た。

More than 100 students came to Japan.

この本は千円以上します。

This book costs more than 1,000 yen.

明日までに五日以上かかる見込みです。

It is expected to take more than five days by tomorrow.

このレポートには五つ以上の例を挙げてください。

Please provide more than five examples in this report.