What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overhead
Example
The airplane flew overhead, leaving a trail of white smoke behind it. [overhead: adverb]
Example
The overhead costs of running a business can be quite high. [overhead: noun]
Example
The drone captured an amazing overhead view of the beach and ocean. [overhead: adjective]
upward
Example
The hot air balloon rose upward into the sky, floating gently on the breeze. [upward: adverb]
Example
There has been an upward trend in the number of people using public transportation. [upward: adjective]
Example
The company's profits have been steadily increasing upward over the past few years. [upward: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Upward is more commonly used than overhead in everyday language. Upward is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while overhead is less common and has a more limited scope.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overhead and upward?
Both overhead and upward can be used in formal and informal contexts, but overhead may be more commonly used in technical or business settings due to its association with costs and expenses.
