above sentence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "above sentence" is not correct and should not be used in written English.
The phrase you are looking for is "previous sentence" or "the preceding sentence." For example, "The previous sentence explains why we need to take certain steps."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

The above sentence is no exception.

The New Yorker

Instead, the machine responded, "The above sentence is ambiguous.

The New Yorker

Morpurgo speaks as precisely as he writes, and the separation of his parents in the above sentence is dramatically revealing.

The Guardian - Books

Note how the above sentence is phrased.

Science Magazine

The above sentence sums up Chris Henry's grounded attitude.

BBC

Consequently the above sentence would not be considered as positive.

Security Informatics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Now, I realize that the above sentences were written by lawyers who are suing to have the severance plan overturned, so they are not exactly impartial observers.

The New York Times

In the above sentences, hai adjoins to MPEpi and have MPEpi as the focus domain.

Lingua Sinica

I don't blame you if you found the above sentences boring—I majored in that nonsense!

TechCrunch

The editors would like to thank Michael Beaton and Harry McCauley for suggesting improvements to the wording of some of the above sentences.

SEP

For there is no guarantee that validity is preserved once the above sentences are paraphrased (say, in a pretense-theoretic manner à la Walton).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and choose the most appropriate alternative. For example, use "aforementioned sentence" when referring to a sentence previously cited.

Common error

Don't rely solely on "above sentence" due to its grammatical inaccuracy. Overuse of this phrase can detract from your writing's credibility. Instead, actively choose clearer and more precise language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "above sentence" functions as a referential marker, pointing the reader or listener to a sentence that has already been stated. It aims to create a connection within the text, guiding the audience to a specific point of reference. Ludwig shows that while frequent, this phrasing is not considered grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

26%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

While the phrase "above sentence" is frequently encountered, Ludwig AI advises against its use in formal writing due to grammatical inaccuracies. Opting for alternatives such as "previous sentence" or "preceding sentence" ensures clearer and more professional communication. Although "above sentence" appears across diverse source types—including science, news, and wikis—prioritizing grammatical correctness enhances the overall quality and credibility of your writing. Using more precise language strengthens the impact and clarity of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preceding sentence

Uses a more formal and grammatically sound term to indicate the sentence that comes before.

previous sentence

A common and acceptable way to refer to the sentence immediately before the current one.

sentence above

Reverses the word order, maintaining similar meaning with a slightly less formal tone.

aforementioned sentence

A more formal term emphasizing that the sentence has been previously mentioned.

sentence in question

Highlights that you're referring to a specific sentence that's being analyzed or discussed.

sentence cited above

Highlights the fact that you already cited the sentence.

sentence referenced earlier

Rephrases to highlight the temporal aspect of having mentioned it before.

the sentence before

A simpler and more direct way to indicate the preceding sentence.

foregoing sentence

Similar to 'preceding' but less commonly used.

sentence discussed earlier

Emphasizes the discussion aspect, implying a more in-depth examination.

FAQs

What's a grammatically correct alternative to "above sentence"?

The phrases "previous sentence" and "preceding sentence" are grammatically correct and widely accepted alternatives.

Is it always wrong to use "above sentence"?

While frequently used, especially in less formal contexts, "above sentence" is generally considered grammatically incorrect. Opt for alternatives like "previous sentence" in formal writing.

How can I emphasize that I'm referring to a sentence already discussed?

Use "aforementioned sentence" or "sentence discussed earlier" to highlight that the sentence has been previously addressed.

What's the difference between "above sentence" and "sentence above"?

While both refer to the same thing, "sentence above" is slightly less awkward but still not as grammatically sound as "previous sentence" or "preceding sentence".