upon

preposition

ə-ˈpȯn How to pronounce upon (audio)
Definition of uponnext
as in on
in or into contact with leaned upon the desk

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of upon Iran seems to be retaliating by firing upon and potentially seizing more commercial ships. — Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 22 Apr. 2026 Spend six to 12 months deliberately building one critical capability (or confidence gap), with clear outcomes agreed upon with your sponsor and regular, candid feedback. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2026 Vietnamese airlines are planning to significantly reduce flights and scale back operations next month due to the high costs brought upon by the conflict, as well as potential jet fuel shortages. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 1 Apr. 2026 Because there is not yet a clear and agreed-upon way to measure this, nurses and hospital leadership – who view the problem from their distinct positions – often disagree on what safe staffing actually looks like, which can lead to conflict. — Anna Mayo, The Conversation, 25 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for upon
Recent Examples of Synonyms for upon
  1. on
  2. against
Preposition
  • The association with the Human Rights Campaign could create more confusion about Talarico’s stance on the medical issue, as his position has come into question through his inconsistent comments.
    — Hudson Crozier, The Washington Examiner, 21 Oct. 2026
  • Companies on the list averaged annual shareholder returns of 49% over the three years through June 2026—check out the rest of the list here.
    — Diane Brady, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2026
Definition of on
Preposition
  • Catholics have used Scripture to argue for and against deportations and strict immigration enforcement.
    — Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2026
  • This comes after Toney also already set the school record for single-game receiving yards in the season opener against Stanford.
    — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 25 Oct. 2026
Definition of against

Phrases Containing upon

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upmost
upon
upped
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Cite this Entry

“Upon.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/upon. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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