Difference Between On and Upon

On vs Upon

On and Upon are prepositions that convey same meaning and can be used interchangeably. However, upon makes a sentence look more formal than on. More to this, there are some instances where only upon is used to emphasize the meaning. This is the key difference between On and Upon.

There are many prepositions in English language but a pair that confuses many is on and upon as both signify or denote the same thing. This is why those whose native language is not English find it difficult to use either of these prepositions correctly. They think of these two words as synonyms which they are not. This article will high light 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 bed time 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 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 flight.

The kid started to smile upon seeing his mother.