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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "on the basis of" with 上 (shàng)

    Manner & Method
    Purpose & Reason

    Structure

    Noun + 上

    Explanation

    The particle 上 (shàng) can mean "on the basis of," "in terms of," or "in the aspect of" when placed after a noun to indicate a domain or perspective. This usage is common in formal writing to specify the framework within which something applies. For example, 宪法上 means "constitutionally" or "on a constitutional basis."

    Examples

    • 理论上这个方法是可行的，但实际操作很难。

      lǐlùn shàng zhège fāngfǎ shì kěxíng de, dàn shíjì cāozuò hěn nán.

      In theory this method is feasible, but it's very difficult in practice.

    • 这些权利在宪法上是受到保护的。

      zhèxiē quánlì zài xiànfǎ shàng shì shòudào bǎohù de.

      These rights are protected under the constitution.

    • 经济上他没有什么压力，生活过得很轻松。

      jīngjì shàng tā méiyǒu shénme yālì, shēnghuó guò de hěn qīngsōng.

      He has no financial pressure and lives a very relaxed life.

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