A1adverb2K

Upstairs

UK /["/ˌʌpˈsteəz/"]/US /["/ˌʌpˈsterz/"]/

Definition

up the stairs; on or to a floor of a house or other building higher than the one that you are on

In simple words: The area above the main floor of a building.

Examples

to run/walk/head upstairs
The cat belongs to the people who live upstairs.
She **went upstairs** to get dressed.
I carried her bags upstairs.
I turned and walked back upstairs.

Usage notes

Use 'upstairs' to refer to locations on the upper floor. It is appropriate in both casual and formal contexts, but avoid using it in technical or very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone adverb

Memory hint

Think of 'up' like climbing stairs; you always go up to get to 'upstairs'.

Collocations

go upstairs
upstairs room
upstairs neighbor

Synonyms

above
upper floor
higher level

Antonyms

downstairs

Common mistakes

Confused with 'up stair' - it's always one word.
Used incorrectly as an adjective instead of an adverb.
Mispronounced, often stressing the wrong syllable.