Definition and meaning of Above (adverb preposition)

Above

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The word “above” is a versatile term in the English language, often used to indicate a higher position, superiority, or a greater value. It functions primarily as a preposition, adverb, or occasionally as an adjective. Below is a detailed explanation of its meaning, definition, and uses.

Definition of “Above”

1. As a Preposition:

• Meaning: In or to a higher position than something; over.
  • Example: The painting hangs above the fireplace.
• Meaning: Greater in number, amount, rank, or importance.
  • Example: His performance was above average.

1. As an Adverb:

• Meaning: In a higher place or position.
  • Example: She looked at the stars shining above.
• Meaning: Earlier in a document or conversation.
  • Example: Refer to the instructions mentioned above.

1. As an Adjective (less common):

• Meaning: Situated in a higher place or of greater importance.
  • Example: The above statement is true.

Detailed Meanings and Uses of “Above”

1. Indicating Physical Height or Position (Preposition/Adverb)

• Refers to something located at a higher level or position relative to another object.
  • Example (Preposition): The clouds floated above the mountains.
  • Example (Adverb): The eagle soared above.

2. Expressing Superiority or Higher Status (Preposition)

• Refers to being of greater importance, rank, or quality.
  • Example: She holds a position above everyone else in the team.
  • Example: This product is above its competitors in quality.

3. Numerical or Quantitative Superiority (Preposition)

• Indicates a value or amount greater than a specific number.
  • Example: Children above the age of 12 need tickets.
  • Example: Temperatures are expected to rise above 30 degrees Celsius.

4. Reference to Prior Text or Statements (Adverb)

• Used to refer back to something previously mentioned.
  • Example: Please follow the guidelines listed above.

5. Moral or Ethical Superiority (Preposition)

• Refers to being beyond a particular standard, especially morally.
  • Example: He is above lying to get what he wants.

Synonyms for “Above”

Depending on the context, synonyms may include:

• Over
• Higher than
• Beyond
• Superior to
• Up

Antonyms for “Above”

• Below
• Under
• Beneath
• Inferior to

Examples of “Above” in Sentences

1. Preposition (Height or Position):

• The clock is placed above the doorway.

1. Preposition (Superiority):

• Her intelligence is above average for her age.

1. Adverb (Position):

• The stars above sparkled brightly.

1. Adverb (Reference to Prior Text):

• See the example mentioned above for clarification.

1. Preposition (Moral Standard):

• He is above cheating, even in difficult situations.

Common Phrases Using “Above”

1. Above all:

• Meaning: More than anything else; most importantly.
  • Example: Above all, honesty is the best policy.

1. Rise above:

• Meaning: To overcome challenges or difficulties.
  • Example: She managed to rise above the criticism and succeed.

1. Above board:

• Meaning: Honest, open, and legitimate.
  • Example: The business deal was completely above board.

1. Be above (something):

• Meaning: To consider oneself too good or ethical for something.
  • Example: He is above gossiping about others.

1. Look above:

• Meaning: To physically glance upward or figuratively consider a higher position.
  • Example: Look above for the instructions on how to proceed.

About definition and meaning

Differences Between “Above” and Related Words

1. Above vs. Over:

• Both can indicate a higher position, but above is often used for fixed locations, while over suggests movement or covering.
  • Example: The bird flew over the hill. (movement)
  • Example: The clock is above the shelf. (fixed position)

1. Above vs. Beyond:

• Above often refers to physical or measurable superiority, while beyond implies going past limits or boundaries.
  • Example: Temperatures above freezing.
  • Example: His ideas go beyond conventional thinking.

Conclusion

The word “above” is a crucial part of the English language, used to describe physical, numerical, and metaphorical superiority or position. Its versatility allows it to function in numerous contexts, from describing a higher physical location to indicating ethical standards or referencing previous content. Mastery of this term enhances clarity and precision in communication.

Relative words of ‘A’

S.No	Words
1	A
2	Able
3	Ability
4	About
5	Above
6	Absence
7	Abroad
8	Absolute
9	Absent
10	Abstract
11	Abuse
12	Angry
13	Access
14	Annoy
15	Acceptable
16	Acceptance
17	Accede
18	Accept
19	Abusive
20	Academic
21	Approve