What does the phrasal verb “dwell upon” mean?

What are the definitions of “dwell upon”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Spend a lot of time on something.

  She DWELT UPON the economic situation in her speech.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “dwell upon”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb dwell upon is to spend a lot of time thinking or talking about a particular subject or issue. It often implies that someone is focusing on something for an extended period or giving it excessive attention.

What are the different verb forms of “dwell upon”?

Root Verb	dwell upon
Third Person Singular Present	dwells upon
Present Participle	dwelling upon
Simple Past	dwelt upon
Past Participle	dwelt upon

Example

He tends to dwell upon his past mistakes.

Example

She dwells upon the details of her childhood memories.

Example

He is dwelling upon the consequences of his actions.

Example

They dwelt upon the negative aspects of the situation.

Example

The issue has been dwelt upon for too long.

What kind of phrasal verb is “dwell upon”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“dwell upon” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

She dwelt upon the economic situation in her speech.

Example

He dwelt upon the importance of teamwork.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“dwell upon” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

She dwelt upon the economic situation in her speech.

Example

He dwelt upon the importance of teamwork.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “dwell upon”?

Dwell upon the past

To think or talk about past events or experiences, often with a sense of regret or nostalgia.

Example

He often dwells upon the past, wishing he could change some of his decisions.

Dwell upon a problem

To focus on a problem or issue, often excessively or without finding a solution.

Example

She dwells upon her problems instead of trying to find solutions.

Dwell upon a thought

To think about a particular idea or thought for an extended period.

Example

He dwells upon the thought of what could have been if he had made different choices.

Good things to know

Does “dwell upon” have an informal or formal tone?

Dwell upon is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic discussions or professional presentations.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “dwell upon”?

Synonyms

• ponder
• focus on
• concentrate on
• contemplate
• mull over
• ruminate on
• reflect on
• think about

Antonyms

• ignore
• overlook
• disregard
• forget
• neglect
• dismiss
• skim over