Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'on top' or 'above' with 上面 (shàngmiàn)

    Location & Position

    Structure

    Object + 上面 + Verb + Content

    Explanation

    The noun 上面 (shàngmiàn) means 'on top,' 'above,' or 'on the surface of.' It is used to describe the position of something located on or above another object. It can also be used figuratively to mean 'on it' when referring to written content on a surface.

    Examples

    • 书在柜子上面，你自己拿吧。

      Shū zài guìzi shàngmiàn, nǐ zìjǐ ná ba.

      The book is on top of the cabinet; get it yourself.

    • 信封上面写着一个陌生的地址。

      Xìnfēng shàngmiàn xiě zhe yīge mòshēng de dìzhǐ.

      An unfamiliar address was written on the envelope.

    • 把箱子放在架子上面就行了。

      Bǎ xiāngzi fàng zài jiàzi shàngmiàn jiù xíng le.

      Just put the box on top of the shelf.

    Similar Grammar

    Often Confused With

    Expressing 'on top' or 'above' with 上面 (shàngmiàn) | Chinese Grammar