upon
- 1A more formal word for "on," used in writing and in set phrases.
Like wearing nice clothes instead of everyday ones: the same word, but dressed up to sound more formal.
Please place the books upon the table by the window.
She rested her hand gently upon his shoulder.
UsageMost people say on. Upon is common in phrases like once upon a time and upon arrival.
Similaron
Note
- 2Used to say that an event or a period of time is very near and about to come.
Summer is upon us, so it's time to open the pool.
Her driving test was suddenly upon her, and she still felt nervous.
UsageOften said as be upon us, or with summer upon us.
- 3Used between a word and the same word again, as in 'row upon row', to show a huge number or amount.
Row upon row of shoes filled the back of the store.
We drove for mile upon mile without seeing a house.
UsageUsually no a or the: row upon row. Mile after mile means one after another.
Similarafter
Practice
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Origin
It comes from Old English, and is really the words 'up' and 'on' joined together.
Checked 5 Nov 2026 · 2 facts
- 'Upon' comes from Old English. en.wiktionary.org
- 'Upon' combines the words 'up' and 'on'. en.wiktionary.org