目 上(めうえ)

めうえ

noun, no-adjective

superior, senior

1. superior, senior, one's elder

A person of higher status, rank, or age than oneself.

目上(めうえ)の人(ひと)には敬語(けいご)を使(つか)う。

Use polite language with superiors.

目上(めうえ)に対(たい)して失礼(しつれい)だ。

That's rude toward one's superiors.

目上(めうえ)の方(かた)からの助言(じょげん)は大切(たいせつ)だ。

Advice from those above you is valuable.

USAGE: 目上(めうえ) describes people who are senior in age, rank, or social position. Understanding 目上(めうえ) and 目下(めした) relationships is essential for proper use of keigo (polite language).

COMMON PATTERNS:

目上(めうえ)の人(ひと)/方(かた) (a superior, senior person)
目上(めうえ)に対(たい)して (toward one's superiors)

CONTRAST:

目上(めうえ) - superior, senior
目下(めした) - subordinate, junior
先輩(せんぱい) - senior (in school/work)
後輩(こうはい) - junior (in school/work)

Related Words

Antonym: 目下(めした) (subordinate)

Related: 先輩(せんぱい)

general

Added 2026.1.12 22:34 · Revised 2026.5.28 3:29

03500/03804_meue