JLPT N2 grammar

〜上でmeaning and usage

Meaning

  1. First A (is done, often in preparation), then B (as a result)
  2. Indicates an important purpose/goal A

How to form it

  • verb (ta-form)上で
  • nounの上で
  • verb (dictionary form)上で
  • verb (dictionary form)上でのnoun

How it is used

Two uses: 「〜た上で」, do A first as a needed step, then B (「よく考えた上で決める」); and 「〜る上で」, 'in doing A' or 'for A' (「生活する上で大切なこと」). Unlike 「〜てから」, the first use makes A a requirement for B.

Examples

  1. 朝食を食べて歯を磨いた上で、学校へ行く。

    After I eat breakfast and brush my teeth, I go to school.

  2. 家族と相談の上で、お返事します。

    I'll give you my answer after talking it over with my family.

  3. 外国語を学ぶ上で、毎日続けることが一番大切だ。

    In learning a foreign language, keeping at it every day matters most.