N5 · Structured courses

Position Words: Ue, Shita, Mae, Ushiro, Naka, etc.

Learn Japanese position nouns to describe spatial relationships between objects. This lesson combines form, context, examples, common mistakes, and practice so you can use the pattern in real communication.

12 minNihongo Hub Editorial TeamPublished 2026-06-06Updated 2026-06-06

Learning objectives

  • Lesson goals: Learn Japanese position nouns to describe spatial relationships between objects.
  • Form and connection: [Noun A] の [位置词]
  • Nuance in real use: Japanese uses nouns (not prepositions) for spatial relations. The "Xのposition" pattern treats relationships as things.

Form and connection

[Noun A] の [位置词]

Core Explanation

Learn Japanese position nouns to describe spatial relationships between objects.

Cultural Note

Japanese uses nouns (not prepositions) for spatial relations. The "Xのposition" pattern treats relationships as things.

Practical examples

There is a dictionary on the desk.
The cat is under the table.
The bank is next to the post office.

Common pitfalls

Build the base form before adding the pattern

Complete the required conjugation first. Do not keep polite and plain endings at the same time.

Match politeness to the situation

The examples are reliable starting points; relationships and context can still change the most natural wording.

Practice and answers

1. Write the connection formula for this lesson.
Show answer[Noun A] の [位置词]
2. Explain the meaning of the first example.
Show answerThere is a dictionary on the desk.
3. Rewrite the final example using this lesson pattern.
Show answer銀行ぎんこうは郵便局ゆうびんきょくの隣となりです。 ([Noun A] の [位置词])

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