上うえには上うえがある

expression, godan verb (-ru, irregular)

there is always someone better; greatness is comparative; there is always a bigger fish

Proverb reminding that no matter how skilled or accomplished one is, there is always someone superior. Often used humbly or to encourage perspective.

• 彼かれはクラスで一いち番ばんだと思おもっていたが、上うえには上うえがあると知しった。

  He thought he was the best in the class, but he learned that there is always someone better.

• 上うえには上うえがあるから、謙けん虚きょでいなければならない。

  Since there is always a bigger fish, you must stay humble.