Pattern English: How Do We Use Above?

How Do We Use Above? – Pattern English

Today we will discuss what are the ways people use the word “above”.

Usage 01: Above can mean in or at a higher place.

Pattern 1: be + above + noun

• The painting was above the mantel.
• A chandelier is above the dining table.
• The books are above the cabinet.
• The ladder was above the basement stairs.
• The poster is above the bed.
• The umbrella was above your head.
• The towels are above the sink.
• The vase is above the mantel.
• The lamp was above the side table.
• The clock is above the door.

Pattern 2: verb + noun + above + noun

• She positioned the mirror above the dresser.
• They installed the shelf above the desk.
• Arrange the books above the cabinet.
• Carry the ladder above the basement stairs.
• Hang the poster above the bed.
• Hold the umbrella above your head.
• Keep the towels above the sink.
• Place the vase above the mantel.
• Put the lamp above the side table.
• Set the clock above the door.

The word “Above” can mean at a higher level, value, or rank.

• Her cholesterol levels are above normal.
• The students in his class are all above average.
• In the army, a colonel is above a lieutenant colonel.

Next, Above (adverb) can indicate something written earlier in a book: article: or other document.

• Refer to the guidelines mentioned above.
• As stated in the section above, additional information is required.

Usage 04: Above (adjective) describes something written earlier.

• Make sure to review the above comments before proceeding.
• The above statement summarizes our main findings.

Usage 05: Above indicates that a person is too good to commit the stated negative action.

Pattern 1: be + above + noun

• Her dedication to her work is above reproach.
• His integrity is above suspicion.
• His actions are above dishonesty.
• Her character is above meanness.
• The witness’s testimony is above perjury.
• Their behavior is above theft.
• The community is above murder.
• Loyalty to the country is above treason.

Pattern 2: be + above + verb in gerund form

• His behavior is above stealing.
• Their actions are above breaking the law.
• Her conduct is above cheating.
• Our culture is above gossiping.
• The company’s policy is above lying.
• Their morals are above robbing.
• Our ethics are above snooping.
• The community’s values are above stealing.

Usage 06: Expressions

Up Above (adverb)—in heaven:

• She believed her grandmother was watching over her from up above.
• He hoped to reunite with his beloved dog in a peaceful place up above.

Above and Beyond the Call of Duty—action that is more or greater than what is expected of a person:

• The firefighter’s bravery went above and beyond the call of duty when she rescued the family from the burning building.
• His dedication to his patients was above and beyond the call of duty, often working late hours to ensure their well-being.

Completely honest and open: (Above Board)

• The company assured its investors that all transactions were above board and transparent.
• She conducted the negotiations in a manner that was completely above board, leaving no room for doubt or suspicion.

Exempt from restrictions of the law: (Above the Law)

• He believed his wealth made him above the law, often flaunting regulations without consequence.
• The corrupt official acted as if he were above the law, engaging in illegal activities without fear of punishment.

 

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