上弦(じょうげん)

上弦(じょうげん) refers to the first quarter moon phase. The name comes from the shape resembling a bow (弓(ゆみ)) with the string on top (上(うえ)).

Moon phases in japanese

• 新月(しんげつ): new moon
• 上弦(じょうげん)の月(つき): first quarter moon
• 満月(まんげつ): full moon
• 下弦(かげん)の月(つき): last quarter moon (left half illuminated)

Memory aid

• 上弦(じょうげん): String on top → right side lit (first quarter)
• 下弦(かげん): String on bottom → left side lit (last quarter)

Note: These terms are used in astronomy, traditional calendars, and sometimes weather forecasts.