This phrase means "based on" or "according to." You use it when something is true in a plan or rule, but maybe not in real life.
Noun + の上ではPrimary
Noun + の上でも
Noun + の上での + Noun
This phrase means "based on" or "according to." You use it when something is true in a plan or rule, but maybe not in real life.
理論の上では、この実験は成功するはずだが、実際には多くの問題がある。
In theory, this experiment should succeed, but in reality, there are many problems.
計画の上では全て順調に進む予定だったが、予期せぬトラブルが発生した。
On paper, everything was planned to proceed smoothly, but an unexpected problem occurred.
書類の上では問題ないことになっていますが、念のため確認をお願いします。
On paper it's stated that there are no problems, but please double-check just in case.
この製品は、スペックの上では他社製品より優れているが、使いやすさでは劣る。
This product is superior to competitors' products in terms of specs, but is inferior in usability.
暦の上ではもう春ですが、まだ肌寒いですね。
According to the calendar it's already spring, but it's still chilly, isn't it.
This phrase sets up a way of looking at something. It's like saying, "From this point of view..." or "According to this idea..." It often hints that the real situation is different.
This is different from other phrases. 〜にとって means "for me." It shows your personal feelings. 〜の上では is about facts or rules. It is not about feelings. 〜として means "as a role." For example, "as a doctor." 〜の上では is not about a role. 〜から見れば means "from someone's view." It is about a person's opinion. 〜の上では is more formal. It is about general rules, not one person's view.
Don't use this when talking about your feelings. For example, don't say "in terms of my feelings." Use this for ideas, rules, or information. Think of things like a plan, a law, or data. It is for things that are not personal feelings.
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More formal alternatives(6)
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