上うえには上うえがいる

expression, ichidan verb

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

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

• 彼かれはクラスで一いち番ばんだと思おもっていたが、全ぜん国こく大たい会かいでは上うえには上うえがいることを知しった。

  He thought he was the best in his class, but at the national competition he realized there is always someone better.

• 上うえには上うえがいるから、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 remain humble.