What are the definitions of “strike upon”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Have a good idea.
It took us a long time to STRIKE UPON a solution.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “strike upon”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb strike upon is to suddenly have a good idea or discover something. It often refers to finding a solution to a problem or coming up with a creative idea.
What are the different verb forms of “strike upon”?
| Root Verb | strike upon |
| Third Person Singular Present | strikes upon |
| Present Participle | striking upon |
| Simple Past | struck upon |
| Past Participle | struck upon |
Example
After hours of brainstorming, they finally struck upon a brilliant idea.
Example
She often strikes upon innovative solutions to complex problems.
Example
He is striking upon new ideas for his next project.
Example
Yesterday, they struck upon the perfect name for their new business.
Example
The idea for the novel was struck upon during a long walk in the woods.
What kind of phrasal verb is “strike upon”?
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.)
Intransitive verb
“strike upon” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She struck upon a great idea for her presentation.
Example
He struck upon the solution to the puzzle.
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
“strike 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 struck upon a great idea for her presentation.
Example
He struck upon the solution to the puzzle.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “strike upon”?
Strike upon a compromise
To find a middle ground or agreement between two opposing parties.
Example
After hours of negotiation, they finally struck upon a compromise that satisfied both sides.
Good things to know
Does “strike upon” have an informal or formal tone?
Strike 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 business meetings or academic discussions.
