年上(としうえ)

Etymology

年(とし) (age, year) + 上(うえ) (above) → above in years = older

Common patterns

• 〜より年上(としうえ) - older than ~
• 年上(としうえ)の人(ひと) - older person
• 三(さん)歳(さい)年上(としうえ) - three years older

Usage

Used to describe age relationships between people. Important in Japanese culture where age often determines social hierarchy and language use.

USAGE (partners):
年上(としうえ)の彼女(かのじょ)/彼氏(かれし) means a girlfriend or boyfriend who is older than oneself.