ABOVE

Definition of ABOVE

ABOVE Preposition, Adverb and Adjective

Above is a preposition, adverb, and adjective with meanings that relate to position, hierarchy, superiority, or abstract concepts such as morality, importance, or priority. It describes something being at a higher level, ranking, or degree than something else, whether physically, metaphorically, or conceptually. Its versatility allows it to be used in spatial descriptions, comparisons, and figurative language across various contexts.

ABOVE as a preposition

As a preposition, above primarily indicates that something is located at a greater height than something else. This can be a physical location, as in “The painting hangs above the fireplace”, meaning it is positioned at a higher level. It is also used in relation to measurements, temperatures, or rankings, such as “The temperature is above freezing” or “His performance was above average.”

Beyond spatial and quantitative uses, above can imply superiority, control, or authority. For example, in “The manager is above the employees”, it suggests a higher rank rather than a physical position. Similarly, “No one is above the law” conveys a principle of justice, emphasizing that legal rules apply to all, regardless of status.

In an ethical or moral sense, above can signify dignity or integrity, as in “She is above lying to get ahead”, meaning she would not stoop to dishonesty.

ABOVE as an adverb

As an adverb, above means “in a higher place”, whether physically or figuratively. For example, “Look above” directs attention upward. It can also refer to status or importance, as in “She ranks above all her classmates”, meaning she holds a superior position.

In writing, above often refers to previously mentioned information, as in “As stated above, the report confirms our findings”, meaning the referenced content appears earlier in the text. This usage is common in academic, professional, and legal writing.

ABOVE as an adjective

Less commonly, above is used as an adjective, typically in a formal or literary context, to describe something previously mentioned. For instance, “the above statement” refers to a statement already presented in a document or conversation.

Additionally, in poetic or expressive language, above may describe a lofty or elevated quality, as in “His above ideals guided his actions”, though this usage is rare in modern English.

Metaphorical and Symbolic Uses: Beyond its literal meaning, above is frequently used metaphorically. Phrases like “rising above challenges” or “thinking above petty concerns” convey notions of overcoming difficulties or maintaining a broader perspective. The phrase “a cut above the rest” suggests superiority or exceptional quality.

Religiously and philosophically, above is often associated with divinity, heaven, or higher consciousness. Expressions like “looking to the heavens above” symbolize spirituality or divine guidance. Similarly, in moral discussions, being “above reproach” means being beyond blame or suspicion.

Above functions as a preposition, adverb, and adjective, denoting height, superiority, and precedence in both physical and abstract senses. Whether used to describe spatial relationships, hierarchies, excellence, or moral standing, it conveys a sense of elevation and distinction. Its frequent metaphorical applications make it a fundamental term in language, allowing for nuanced expression in everyday speech, literature, and philosophical discussions.

Examples of ABOVE in a sentence

ABOVE as a preposition in a sentence

• The bird flew above the trees.
• The painting is hanging above the fireplace.
• He placed the book above the shelf.
• The airplane flew above the clouds.
• The helicopter hovered above the building.
• The light bulb hangs above the table.
• The sun was shining above the horizon.
• The stars twinkled above the mountains.

ABOVE as an adverb in a sentence

• The airplane is flying above.
• He looked up and saw the bird flying above.
• The temperature has risen above freezing.
• The helicopter hovered above.
• The sun was shining brightly above.
• The stars twinkled in the sky above.
• The building stood tall above.
• The kite soared high above.

ABOVE as an adjective in a sentence

• The above statement is incorrect.
• As per the above instructions, you need to complete the task.
• The above figure shows the changes in revenue.
• The above mentioned points were discussed in the meeting.
• The above example clarifies the rule.
• The above paragraph explains the main idea.
• The above photo captures the moment perfectly.
• The above mentioned individuals were not present at the event.

Origin of ABOVE

The term above has an intriguing etymological background that reflects its use across a range of contexts, primarily to indicate direction, position, or higher status.

Semantic Context: Above is a preposition, adverb, and adjective that denotes a higher position, status, or degree relative to something else. It can also be used to indicate superiority or in reference to a rank or level.

• Etymological Roots: The word above comes from the Old English “above,” which is a combination of the preposition “a-” (a form of “on”) and “bove,” meaning “over” or “higher.” The root “bove” is derived from the Old Norse “bóð,” which means “summit” or “top.” The word evolved to represent not just physical height, but also a sense of superiority or precedence.
• Historical Development: The use of above in English dates back to the early Middle Ages, when it was used to describe something that was physically located at a higher point or level. Over time, its usage extended beyond physical space to include abstract meanings, such as indicating higher rank, status, or level of importance. By the 14th century, the term was also employed in figurative senses, such as in phrases like “above reproach” or “above average,” referring to superiority in qualities or status.
• Cultural and Linguistic Evolution: During the Middle English period, above became increasingly common as an adverb to indicate actions occurring at a higher place or position (“look above”). Additionally, its use expanded to signify not only physical placement but also metaphorical or abstract positions of superiority, morality, or quality. The phrase “above and beyond” emerged to convey exceeding expectations or duties, further illustrating its figurative expansion.
• Current Usage: Today, above is used widely in both physical and metaphorical contexts. As a preposition, it indicates a higher position, such as in “The birds flew above the trees.” It also serves as an adverb to describe actions or states occurring at a higher level, such as “The temperature is above freezing.” Additionally, above is often used figuratively to refer to things of superior quality, rank, or importance, as in “She is above reproach” or “a person of above-average intelligence.”

The term above has evolved from its literal meaning of spatial height to encompass figurative uses related to superiority and precedence, reflecting its versatility in expressing both physical and abstract relationships in modern English.