上手

• Reading: じょうず
• Romaji: jouzu
• Kanji breakdown: 上 (jō/ue) — up, above, upper; 手 (zu/te) — hand
• Pronunciation: /d͡ʑo.ɯ.zɯ/

Meaning

Skillful; good at; proficient. Used to praise someone's ability at a specific activity.

A na-adjective used to describe someone who is skilled at something. The activity is marked with が: 日本語が上手です (You are good at Japanese). Often used as a compliment. Note: telling a Japanese person 日本語が上手ですね is such a common compliment to foreigners that it has become somewhat of a cliche. The antonym is 下手 (heta, poor at).

Examples

1. あなたは料理が上手ですね。 You're a great cook!
2. 彼女はピアノが上手です。 She's good at playing the piano.
3. 上手に絵を描きました。 I drew a picture skillfully.

Usage Guide

Context: compliments, abilities, daily life

Tone: positive

Origin & History

Literally 'upper hand' — 上 (up) and 手 (hand). The metaphor of the upper hand representing skill or mastery is shared across many cultures. Originally a term from traditional performing arts.

Cultural Context

Era: Medieval

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal