upon
uh-PON
Upon (prep) means a more formal or literary word for "on". Example: “Once upon a time, there lived a king.”
prep
1
A more formal or literary word for "on".
"Once upon a time, there lived a king."
"The decision rests upon the committee's vote."
"She placed the letter upon the table and left quietly."
How to use upon
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA fancier way of saying "on," common in formal writing and set phrases.
When to use it
More formal and literary than plain "on"; common in fixed phrases like "once upon a time."
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Etymology
From Middle English upon, from Old English uppon, formed from up + on.
Related words
Rhymes for upon
See all rhymes for upon →Frequently asked questions
What does “upon” mean?
The word “upon” means a more formal or literary word for "on". In plain terms, a fancier way of saying "on," common in formal writing and set phrases.
How do you pronounce “upon”?
“Upon” is pronounced uh-PON (/əˈpɒn/ in IPA).
How do you use “upon” in a sentence?
Here is “upon” used in a sentence: “Once upon a time, there lived a king.”
What part of speech is “upon”?
“Upon” is a preposition.
Where does the word “upon” come from?
The word “upon” comes from Old English. From Middle English upon, from Old English uppon, formed from up + on.
Is “upon” a common word?
“Upon” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between upon and on?
"Upon" and "on" mean the same thing and can usually be swapped, but "upon" sounds more formal, literary, or old-fashioned. You would write "on the table" in everyday speech, but "upon" often appears in formal writing, fixed phrases like "once upon a time," and to add a touch of gravity.
Is upon formal or informal?
"Upon" is formal and slightly literary. In casual conversation, most people simply say "on." "Upon" tends to appear in written English, legal or ceremonial language, and set expressions such as "once upon a time" or "upon arrival." Using it in relaxed everyday speech can sound stiff or overly grand.
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