What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
upended
Example
The storm upended the patio furniture, scattering it across the yard. [upended: verb]
Example
The company's financial troubles upended their plans for expansion. [upended: past participle]
Example
The football player was upended by the opposing team's tackle. [upended: adjective]
upturned
Example
She smiled with an upturned face as the sun warmed her skin. [upturned: adjective]
Example
He upturned the bucket to dump out the water. [upturned: verb]
Example
The hills had an upturned shape, rising steeply towards the sky. [upturned: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Upturned is more commonly used than upended in everyday language, especially in describing facial expressions or natural landscapes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between upended and upturned?
Both upended and upturned are relatively formal words and may not be commonly used in casual conversation. However, upturned may be slightly more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.