Translation guide
The English word 'aforesaid' is a formal, legalistic term meaning 'mentioned previously'. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific noun-modifying structures rather than a single adjective. The most common equivalent is 前述の (ぜんじゅつの), used in formal writing. In speech or less formal contexts, phrases like 先ほど言った (さきほどいった) or simply その (that) are more natural.
To refer to something that has been stated earlier in a document, speech, or formal context.
The standard formal equivalent. Used as a pre-noun adjectival (attributive) to modify a noun. Common in legal, academic, and business documents.
前述の通り、計画は延期されました。
As aforesaid, the plan has been postponed.
前述の理由により、申請を却下します。
For the aforesaid reasons, the application is denied.
To refer to something that was said a moment ago in a conversation or informal setting.
Natural way to say 'what I/you just said'. Use 先ほど (a polite 'a short while ago') for formal speech, or さっき for casual.
先ほど言ったように、明日は休みです。
As I said just now, tomorrow is a holiday.
Using 前述の in everyday conversation sounds overly stiff and unnatural. Instead, use さっき言った or simply その.
さっき言ったレストラン、予約したよ。
I made a reservation at that restaurant I mentioned earlier.
All three are formal and written. 前述 is the most general 'aforementioned'. 上述 specifically means 'above-mentioned' (referring to text physically above). 前記 is often used in legal documents or lists. In most cases, 前述 is the safest choice.
Also a formal pre-noun adjectival, similar to 前述の but slightly more common in legal or very structured documents. Interchangeable in many contexts.
前記の条件に同意します。
I agree to the aforesaid conditions.
Means 'above-mentioned', used when the reference is literally above in the text. Slightly more specific than 前述の.
上述のデータを参照してください。
Please refer to the aforesaid data.
A relative clause meaning 'which was stated earlier'. Less compact than 前述の but still formal. Used when you want to emphasize the act of stating.
先に述べた問題点を再検討します。
We will re-examine the aforesaid issues.
Did you find the book I mentioned earlier?
In many cases, simply using 'that' or 'this' is sufficient and more natural than a direct translation of 'aforesaid'. Context makes the reference clear.
その件についてですが…
Regarding that matter (aforesaid)...
この問題は後で話しましょう。
Let's discuss this issue (aforesaid) later.