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上手

jōzu
adjective★Intermediate💡 skilled
general

Skilled or proficient at something; good at a particular activity or task

彼は料理が上手だ

He is good at cooking

上手に英語を話す

To speak English well

💡

Often used with the particle 'が' to indicate the skill or activity being referred to

formal

The front or leading side (of a stage, boat, etc.)

舞台の上手側

The front side of the stage

💡

This meaning is less common and typically used in formal or technical contexts

Collocations

上手にwellto be good at

Synonyms

うまい得意だ達者だ

Antonyms

下手へた

Related Phrases

上手にやるphrase
to do something well
上手な人phrase
a skilled person

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

This word is often used to compliment someone's abilities in a casual setting.

⚡Gold Rule

Polarity

While '上手' is positive, its antonym '下手' is negative. Be mindful of the context when using either.

📖Word Origin

Composed of '上' (above, superior) and '手' (hand), literally meaning 'superior hand'

📝Usage Notes

Can be used as a na-adjective (上手だ) or as a noun (上手). Often used in casual conversation to compliment someone's skills.

Word Breakdown

上
superior, above
root
+
手
hand
root
和英辞典

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Words of the Year

The most notable words that defined each year. Discover the vocabulary that shaped our world.