上级
Traditional: 上級
shàng jí HSK 6

English Meaning

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📚 Example Sentences

上级领导批准了这个计划。
Shàngjí lǐngdǎo pīzhǔnle zhège jìhuà.
The higher-ups approved this plan.
我们必须服从上级的命令。
Wǒmen bìxū fúcóng shàngjí de mìnglìng.
We must obey the orders from our superiors.
上级部门正在调查此事。
Shàngjí bùmén zhèngzài diàochá cǐ shì.
The higher-level department is investigating this matter.
上级来了。
Shàngjí lái le.
The higher-ups have arrived.
他是我上级。
Tā shì wǒ shàngjí.
He is my superior.

💡 Memory Tip

Break down the characters: 上 (shàng) means 'up' or 'above,' and 级 (jí) means 'level' or 'rank.' Together, they literally mean 'upper level,' helping you remember it refers to people or entities above you in rank.

📝 Usage Notes

This word is formal and commonly used in written and spoken contexts related to organizational or bureaucratic settings, such as workplaces, government, or military. It is neutral in tone and appropriate for professional discussions about reporting structures.

📖 Grammar Points

上级 is typically used as a subject or object in sentences, often followed by nouns like 领导 or 部门. It can appear in patterns like '向 + 上级 + verb' (e.g., 向上级报告) to indicate reporting to higher authorities.

🏯 Cultural Notes

In Chinese organizational culture, respecting and following 上级 is emphasized, reflecting the importance of hierarchy and authority. This concept is deeply rooted in Confucian values that stress social order and deference to those in higher positions.

🔄 Similar Words

Compared to 领导 (lǐngdǎo, 'leader' or 'boss'), which is broader and can refer to any person in charge, 上级 specifically denotes a higher position in a formal hierarchy. 上司 (shàngsi) is a close synonym but is slightly more informal and often used in corporate contexts.

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