What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
on
Example
The book is on the table. [on: preposition]
Example
I'm on a call right now. [on: adjective]
Example
She's on the board of directors. [on: preposition]
upon
Example
Upon arriving at the airport, we went straight to the hotel. [upon: preposition]
Example
Upon hearing the news, she burst into tears. [upon: preposition]
Example
Upon completion of the project, we celebrated with a party. [upon: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
On is much more common than upon in everyday language. On is used in a wide range of contexts and is a basic preposition that ESL learners should learn early on. Upon is more formal and less common, and may be encountered in more advanced or literary texts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between on and upon?
Upon is generally considered more formal than on. It is often used in formal writing or in more literary contexts, while on is used in both formal and informal settings.
