その上

• Reading: そのうえ
• Romaji: sono ue
• Kanji breakdown: 上 (ue/jou) — above, on top of
• Pronunciation: /so.no.ɯ.e/

Meaning

In addition; furthermore; moreover. A conjunction that adds information, often escalating the point.

A conjunction and adverb used to add a further point that builds on the previous statement. Often introduces something that makes a situation even more remarkable, positive, or negative: 安いし、その上おいしい (cheap, and on top of that, delicious). More formal than それに (and also). The literal meaning is 'on top of that,' reflecting its function of stacking information.

Examples

1. この店は安い。その上、料理もおいしい。 This restaurant is cheap. On top of that, the food is delicious.
2. 彼は頭がいい。その上、スポーツも得意だ。 He's smart. What's more, he's great at sports too.
3. 雨が降ってきた。その上、傘も持っていなかった。 It started raining. On top of that, I didn't even have an umbrella.

Usage Guide

Context: writing, presentation, conversation

Tone: emphatic

Origin & History

Compound of その (that) and 上 (ue, above/on top of). Literally 'on top of that' — adding another layer of information above what was already stated.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal