Performing an Action (Upon)

to have confidence that someone will fulfill one's wishes or requests

The manager knew he could count upon his dedicated team to meet tight deadlines.

to depend on something for a particular outcome

The success of the project will hang upon securing adequate funding.

to make a brief reference to a particular topic in the course of discussing something broader

The podcast hosts touched upon the growing trend of mindfulness in the workplace.

to make a choice or reach a conclusion after careful consideration

After hours of discussion, the committee decided upon the best course of action.

to take advantage of someone's feelings, fears, or weaknesses

They played upon the superstitions of the villagers to keep them away from the forest.

to dedicate time and effort to produce or fix something

The mechanic worked upon fixing the car on the repair stand.

to encounter someone or something unexpectedly

As I was cleaning the attic, I came upon a dusty old trunk filled with family photographs.

to encounter suddenly or unexpectedly

As they explored the dense forest, they unexpectedly fell upon an ancient ruin.

to suddenly have a great idea

As we were discussing the problem, John hit upon a brilliant way to save time and resources.