Thereupon: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word originates from Middle English, combining 'there' meaning 'in that place' and 'upon' meaning 'on or over'.
• It dates back to the 14th century, illustrating its long-standing use in the English language.
• The term reflects an old English structure, showcasing how language has evolved over centuries.

Literature

• It's often used in classic literature to give a formal touch, indicating a direct sequence of events.
• Writers like Shakespeare and Dickens employed the term to enhance the narrative flow and connect actions smoothly.
• In legal writing, it serves as a formal connector of events, maintaining clarity in sequences.

Law

• Commonly used in legal documents to express actions that occur immediately following a prior action or stipulation.
• Its usage ensures precision in outlining responsibilities and consequences in legal agreements.
• The formality of the term lends a sense of authority to legal narratives.

Culture

• Although less common today, it reflects a more traditional, perhaps more formal mode of expression often found in historical texts.
• Artists and playwrights sometimes use the term to evoke an older style, adding a sense of grandeur.
• The decline in its everyday use may signal how language adapts to modern conversational styles.

Modern Usage

• In contemporary language, 'thereupon' is often replaced by simpler phrases like 'after that' or 'then'.
• Its formal tone can add elegance to speeches, making it popular in ceremonial contexts.
• Some writers and speakers revive the term to invoke a sense of tradition and respect in their discourse.

At #6,666 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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• 6663 endeavour
• 6664 dug
• 6665 unsatisfactory
• 6666 thereupon
• 6667 maid
• 6668 trigger
• 6669 verification
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