Translation guide
In Japanese, 'the above-mentioned' is typically expressed using the prefix 上記 (jouki) in formal or written contexts, or by using demonstratives like この (kono) or その (sono) to refer back to something just mentioned. In many cases, especially in spoken Japanese, the concept is simply omitted or implied through context.
To refer to something previously mentioned in a document, email, or formal speech.
A prefix meaning 'above-mentioned', used in formal writing. Often followed by の and a noun.
上記の理由により、会議は延期となりました。
Due to the above-mentioned reasons, the meeting has been postponed.
上記の住所に書類を送付してください。
Please send the documents to the above-mentioned address.
Means 'aforementioned' or 'previously stated'. Used in very formal documents or academic writing.
前述の通り、この計画は中止されました。
As aforementioned, this plan has been cancelled.
A prefix used in legal or very formal documents to mean 'the same' or 'the said'. Often combined with other kanji, e.g., 同人 (the said person), 同所 (the said place).
同社は新製品を発表した。
The said company announced a new product.
To refer to something just mentioned in conversation or informal writing.
the guy I mentioned · that thing we talked about
The demonstrative 'that' which naturally refers to something previously mentioned. Use その + noun.
その話、もう聞いたよ。
I already heard that story (you just mentioned).
その人は誰ですか？
Who is that person (you mentioned)?
The demonstrative 'this', used when the speaker feels the mentioned item is close to them or the current topic.
この問題については後で話しましょう。
Let's talk about this issue (I just mentioned) later.
In Japanese, once a topic is established, it is often omitted. You don't need to explicitly say 'the above-mentioned' if the context is clear.
A: 田中さんを知っていますか？ B: はい、知っています。
A: Do you know Mr. Tanaka? B: Yes, I know (him).
To point to something earlier in the same text, like 'the above' or 'the following'.
As above, used for 'the above' in documents.
詳細は上記のURLをご覧ください。
Please see the above-mentioned URL for details.
Literally 'stated above', a more explicit phrase.
上に述べたように、この方法は効果的です。
As stated above, this method is effective.
Directly translating 'the above-mentioned' as 上記の in casual speech sounds unnatural. Use demonstratives or omit the reference instead.
上記 is more common in business emails and general documents. 前述 is more formal and often used in academic or legal contexts.