JLPT N3

以上

Since / Now that

Structure

Plain form 以上（は）

How it works

This grammar point is used to express that because a certain situation exists or a decision has been made, there is a natural consequence, responsibility, or obligation that follows. It often carries a strong sense of determination or duty, similar to 'now that' or 'since' in English. It is frequently followed by expressions of resolve, command, or prohibition.

Examples

約束した以上、守らなければならない。

Since you made a promise, you must keep it.

日本に来た以上は、日本語が上手になりたい。

Now that I've come to Japan, I want to become good at Japanese.

試験を受ける以上、合格を目指して頑張るつもりだ。

Since I am taking the exam, I intend to do my best to pass.

Common mistakes

Do not confuse this with the mathematical 'more than' usage of 以上; in this grammatical context, it must follow a verb in the plain form (often past tense) to indicate a premise.

Tip

Adding 'は' (以上は) makes the sentence sound slightly more emphatic and formal, but the meaning remains the same.

More JLPT N3 grammar

としてに対してについてによってに関してにとってわけだわけがない

See 以上 in real Japanese

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