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
  • Jimmy Kimmel set his sights on Katie Zacharia, the latest blonde woman to act as Donald Trump‘s press secretary.
    — Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 14 Oct. 2026
  • Today’s Theme This puzzle narrates a breakdown in communication that takes place, presumably, on a video call.
    — Sam Corbin, New York Times, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of on
Preposition
  • The ban had been imposed by the central elections committee, a political body dominated by Netanyahu allies, on the basis that the parties supported armed struggle against Israel.
    — The Week UK, TheWeek, 18 Oct. 2026
  • But while critics on the Israeli right railed against the deal, Netanyahu’s deputies worked behind the scenes to preserve it, according to correspondence obtained by TIME.
    — Eric Cortellessa, Time, 18 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 20 Oct. 2026.

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