Processing keyword: ～上は (～ue wa)
Japanese Grammar Point: ～上は (～ue wa)
1. Introduction
In this lesson, we'll explore the Japanese grammar point ～上は (～うえは, ~ue wa), which is used to express a strong sense of determination or obligation that arises from a particular situation. It can be translated as "now that," "since," or "once."
2. Core Grammar Explanation
Meaning
～上は is used to indicate that since a certain situation has arisen, a natural course of action or resolution must follow. It often conveys a sense of duty, resolve, or inevitability.
Structure
- Verb Dictionary Form + 上は
- Verb Ta-form + 上は
Formation Diagram
| Verb Form | + 上は | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Verb Dictionary Form | 上は | 状況が 変わる上は |
| Verb Ta-form | 上は | 試みた 上は |
Usage Notes
- Commonly used in written and formal contexts.
- Emphasizes that because something has happened, there is a logical consequence or resolution.
- Often followed by expressions of determination, advice, or obligation.
3. Comparative Analysis
Similar Grammar Points
| Grammar Point | Meaning | Usage Example |
|---|---|---|
| ～からには | Now that; since | 約束したからには守るべきだ。 |
| ～以上（は） | Since; so long as | 学生である以上、勉強が大事だ。 |
| ～上で（は） | After; upon | 検討した上で決定します。 |
Differences
- ～からには and ～以上（は） are similar but may be used in less formal contexts compared to ～上は.
- ～上で（は） means "after doing" and is not interchangeable with ～上は.
4. Examples in Context
Example 1
試合に出る上は、勝ちたい。 Shiai ni deru ue wa, kachitai. Since I'm participating in the match, I want to win.
Example 2
引き受けた上は、最後まで責任を持ちます。 Hikiuketa ue wa, saigo made sekinin o mochimasu. Now that I've accepted it, I'll take responsibility until the end.
Example 3
日本に来た上は、日本文化を深く知りたい。 Nihon ni kita ue wa, Nihon bunka o fukaku shiritai. Since I've come to Japan, I want to deeply understand Japanese culture.
Example 4
決断した上は、迷わず進めるべきだ。 Ketsudan shita ue wa, mayowazu susumeru beki da. Once you've made a decision, you should proceed without hesitation.
Example 5
大学に入学する上は、しっかり勉強するつもりです。 Daigaku ni nyūgaku suru ue wa, shikkari benkyō suru tsumori desu. Now that I'm entering university, I plan to study hard.
5. Cultural Notes
Cultural Relevance
In Japanese culture, commitment and responsibility are highly valued. Using ～上は reflects a speaker's recognition of their obligation or determination to follow through on something, aligning with social expectations of accountability.
Levels of Politeness
- ～上は is formal and often used in written language, such as essays, official documents, or formal speeches.
6. Common Mistakes and Tips
Error Analysis
- Mistake: Using ～上は with the wrong verb form.
- Incorrect: 勉強している上は
- Correct: 勉強する上は
- Mistake: Confusing ～上は with ～上で
- ～上で means "after doing" or "upon," indicating a sequence of actions.
Learning Strategies
- Remember the Formality: Associate ～上は with situations requiring formal expression of determination or obligation.
- Practice with Commitments: Create sentences about decisions you've made to internalize how ～上は is used.
7. Summary and Review
Key Takeaways
- ～上は expresses strong determination or obligation stemming from a situation.
- Formed by attaching 上は to the dictionary form or ta-form of a verb.
- Formal expression, commonly used in writing.
Quick Recap Quiz
- What does ～上は express in a sentence?
a) A casual suggestion
b) A strong determination or obligation
c) A past habitual action - Which of the following sentences correctly uses ～上は?
a) 日本に行った上は、寿司を食べます。
b) 日本に行く上は、寿司を食べたい。
c) 日本に行っている上は、寿司を食べました。 - Fill in the blank with the appropriate grammar point: 決めた___、全力を尽くします。
Answers
- b) A strong determination or obligation
- b) 日本に行く上は、寿司を食べたい。
- 上は
By understanding and applying ～上は, you'll be able to express firm resolutions and recognize the nuances of formality in Japanese. Keep practicing to become more comfortable with this grammar point!