上乘

shàngchéng

adjective #29,675

Meanings

1 first-class
2 top quality
3 superior

Characters

vehicle, conveyance, grade

Examples

这家餐厅的食材都是上乘之选。

Zhè jiā cāntīng de shícái dōu shì shàngchéng zhī xuǎn.

The ingredients at this restaurant are all top quality.

他的书法技艺上乘，令人叹服。

Tā de shūfǎ jìyì shàngchéng, lìng rén tànfú.

His calligraphy skills are first-rate, inspiring admiration.

Tips

history

上乘 comes from Buddhist terminology, where 乘 (yāna) refers to a 'vehicle' or path to enlightenment. 上乘 (Mahāyāna) was the 'greater vehicle,' hence its meaning of 'superior grade.'

Stroke Order

上 shàng

乘 chéng