What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
upright
Example
The soldier stood upright during the national anthem. [upright: adjective]
Example
She has an upright personality and always does the right thing. [upright: adjective]
Example
The piano has an upright design, making it easier to fit in smaller spaces. [upright: noun]
vertical
Example
The flagpole was perfectly vertical, standing tall against the blue sky. [vertical: adjective]
Example
The elevator moved vertically, going up and down between floors. [vertical: adverb]
Example
The skyscraper had a vertical design, towering over the city skyline. [vertical: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vertical is more commonly used than upright in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between upright and vertical?
Both upright and vertical can be used in formal and informal contexts, but upright may have a slightly more formal connotation due to its association with ethics and morality.
