Upon: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal or literary contexts to indicate something happening immediately after a particular event or at the same time.

• Upon receiving the news, she burst into tears.
• He insisted upon seeing the manager immediately.

Used to indicate time or occasion when something happens. It's often used in more specific contexts of time.

• On his arrival, the party started.
• She called him on his birthday.

Used to indicate that something happens following another event or time. It's common in both formal and informal contexts.

• He went to bed after finishing his homework.
• After the meeting, they went out for lunch.

Used to indicate the time at which something happens or an event occurs. Commonly used in both formal and informal communication.

• They were surprised when they saw the results.
• Call me when you arrive.

Used in more formal or literary contexts, it suggests something immediately after or triggered by another event.

• Upon hearing the news, she started to cry
• He embarked upon his journey with great enthusiasm

Used in everyday language to denote the position of something over or supported by a surface.

• The keys are on the table
• She sat on the bench

Commonly used to describe something positioned at the very top of an object, more formal or poetic.

• The cat perched atop the fence
• The cabin is located atop the mountain

Indicates something is lying or placed lightly on a surface, often used to emphasize a gentle or careful placement.

• The book is resting on the shelf
• His head was resting on her shoulder

Used for more formal or literary contexts, often employed to depict actions directly following an event or time.

• Upon entering the room, she felt a chill run down her spine.
• The kingdom prospered upon the king's return.

Used to express actions that occur as soon as possible, often in urgent or time-sensitive situations.

• Please call me immediately if you hear any news.
• He responded to the email immediately.

Often used to emphasize the rapidity of an action, frequently in informal or hyperbolic speech.

• He knew instantly that something was wrong.
• The software loaded instantly after the update.

Appropriate for casual to formal contexts to describe actions happening without any delay or intermediary steps.

• She left directly after the meeting.
• I told him directly that I didn't agree with his decision.