Distinguishing Between On & Upon

On and Upon are prepositions that convey the same meaning and can be used interchangeably. However, using upon instead of on can make a sentence appear more formal. In some cases, only upon is used to emphasize the meaning, which is the main difference between On and Upon.

There are many prepositions in the English language, and a pair that often confuses people is on and upon, as both signify the same thing. This is why non-native English speakers may find it difficult to use these prepositions correctly. They may think of these two words as synonyms, but they are not. This article will highlight the subtle differences between on and upon and the contexts in which they are used.

He depends upon his father for support in his studies
He depends on his father for support in his studies.

Technically, both these sentences are grammatically correct and convey the same meaning.

However, there are instances when upon is used, and on cannot take its place. Look at this example.

Once upon a time in England… This is how bedtime stories for kids begin, and only upon is used in this sentence. Other examples where only upon can be used are as follows:

– Rains will be upon us in a week’s time
– The meeting is depending upon the arrival of the flight

Whether an object is on a table or upon a table does not make a difference, as it still lies on the surface of the table. It is only when it is over the table that any difference is created. However, the use of upon makes the sentence more formal and emphasizes the fact somehow.

Upon is used to express place and time.

– She called her husband upon arrival of the flight.
– The kid started to smile upon seeing his mother.

Key Takeaways

• On and Upon are prepositions that convey the same meaning, but upon can make a sentence more formal.
• In some cases, only upon is used to emphasize the meaning.
• Upon is used to express place and time.