launch upon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "launch upon" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or incorrect in many contexts.
It could be used when referring to the initiation of a project or endeavor, but it is better to use more standard expressions. Example: "We are ready to launch upon our new marketing campaign next week."

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The operating experience of FBTR has provided sufficient feed-back and confidence for India to launch upon the design and construction of a 500 MWe fast reactor.

Nuclear Engineering and Design

The CDO waved his blue flag indicating he was ready to launch upon a signal from the pilot.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

He launched upon the fourth scandal of his life, the so-called attack on Christendom.

The New Yorker

"We launched upon them this heroic lion who broke through all their fortified checkpoints to blow up his car amid this group of infidels.

The Guardian

In different ways, each launches upon the tidal wave of nightmare a tiny raft-borne human figure, paddling if not prevailing.

The New York Times - Books

But the history of using movies to sell toys is rather longer than you might expect, dating back before the commonly accepted date of 1977, when Star Wars and its accompanying range of merchandise were launched upon the world.

The Guardian - Film

That morning, a waterbourne assault was launched upon Kan Ek's capital.

Wikipedia

A waterbourne assault was launched upon Kan Ek's capital on the morning of 13 March.

Wikipedia

Additionally, Khojaly had been serving as an artillery base from which GRAD missiles were launched upon the civilian population of capital Stepanakert: On some days as many as 400 GRAD missiles rained down on Armenian multi- storey apartments.

Wikipedia

Ursúa decided that any further attempts at peaceful incorporation of the Itza into the Spanish Empire were pointless, and a waterbourne assault was launched upon Kan Ek's capital on the morning of 13 March.

Wikipedia

Bloom has launched upon the world a solid-oxide fuel cell, which is already making electricity for its first round of customers at about $0.10/kilowatt (which is below the market here in California).

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "launch upon", consider the context and audience, as it might sound formal or archaic in modern settings. Opt for more common alternatives like "embark on" or "begin" for broader appeal.

Common error

Avoid using "launch upon" excessively in casual writing. Its formal tone may sound unnatural and detract from the overall readability and flow. Modern readers may find its usage stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "launch upon" primarily functions as a verb of initiation, indicating the start of an action, project, or endeavor. Ludwig examples highlight this function in contexts such as launching an assault or design. The Ludwig AI confirms its usage, although it's not a common one.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "launch upon" is a phrasal verb that signifies initiating an action or project. While grammatically acceptable, it leans towards formal and sometimes archaic usage, as identified by Ludwig. The phrase appears in scientific, news, and wiki contexts, but more common alternatives like "embark on" or "begin" are often preferred for broader appeal. Ludwig suggests considering the audience and context when using "launch upon", as its formal tone may not always be appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

embark on

Suggests beginning a journey or enterprise, differing in its metaphorical application to undertakings.

commence with

Implies formally starting or initiating an action, which varies from focusing on the launch itself.

initiate into

Emphasizes introducing someone to a new experience or activity, shifting focus from pure commencement.

begin to pursue

Highlights the start of an active effort towards a goal, differing in its direct emphasis on purpose.

set about

Indicates preparing or starting to do something, conveying a slightly more proactive approach.

get underway

Focuses on the progress of starting an activity, varying from an singular start.

take up

Indicates starting a new hobby or activity, showing a deliberate decision and commitment.

plunge into

Suggests beginning something with enthusiasm, adding an element of fervor and excitement.

kick off

Informally introduces a start or commencement, presenting a more colloquial option.

spring into action

Highlights a quick and energetic commencement, conveying a sense of eagerness and readiness.

FAQs

What does "launch upon" mean?

The phrase "launch upon" means to begin or embark on something, often with energy or enthusiasm. It's similar to starting a project or undertaking a new venture. While grammatically correct, it's not as common in modern usage as alternatives such as "embark on" or "begin".

How can I use "launch upon" in a sentence?

You can use "launch upon" to describe initiating an action or project. For example, "The operating experience of FBTR has provided sufficient feed-back and confidence for India to "launch upon" the design and construction of a 500 MWe fast reactor."

What are some alternatives to "launch upon"?

Alternatives to "launch upon" include "embark on", "begin", "commence", or "start". The choice depends on the desired level of formality and the specific context.

Is "launch upon" formal or informal?

"Launch upon" tends to be more formal than many of its alternatives. In many contemporary contexts, phrases like "start", "begin", or "embark on" are often preferred for their broader appeal.