level upon level

USAGE SUMMARY

"level upon level" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a phrase used to describe a situation where there are multiple layers or levels. It can be used to emphasize the gradual progression or build-up of something. Example: "As I climbed the stairs of the ancient castle, I couldn't help but be in awe of the level upon level of intricately carved stone walls and opulent furnishings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Level upon level of multistory buildings has been built on previous sites and structures.

Britannica

She tries not to look up at the level upon level of balconies, which rise from the lobby floor.

The New York Times

The chili was a minor masterpiece, with level upon level of flavor.

The New York Times - Food

They all arrived with only their guitars, their finely turned melodies, their reflections on music and relationships, and, displayed just as openly, level upon level of self-consciousness.

The New York Times - Arts

So we struggle through level upon level with nothing more than a potato knife and deeply flawed hand-to-hand combat mechanic to protect us.

The Guardian - Tech

Built on top of a huge hill, the palace is made up of level upon level - a terrace with a stunning view, a reading arbour looking out over lush green fields, a swimming pool, an Ayurvedic treatment centre.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"When you clean out a soundstage for a show that's been in existence for 20, 30, 40 years, it's levels upon levels of history that just all of a sudden unravel," Ms. Stiegelbauer said.

The New York Times - Arts

Notably, there remains no agreed-upon level of appropriate prescribing.

Stanford University

Older authority figures only see a linear path to achievement and impress this upon youth: O Level, A Level, a university degree in something "practical," and then accepting a job offer as a wage-earner.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

We observed decreased levels p16 levels upon AAV9-mTERT treatment in most organs studied (Supporting Information Fig S9C and D) with the exception of the heart.

EMBO Molecular Medicine

This can be the instrumental detection level, or the agreed upon level that can be reasonably acheived.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "level upon level" to vividly describe physical structures, abstract concepts, or progressive stages when you want to emphasize a layered or escalating effect.

Common error

Avoid using "level upon level" in contexts where a simple enumeration or sequential listing is sufficient. The phrase is most effective when conveying a sense of cumulative impact or intricate layering.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "level upon level" functions as a descriptive element, often acting as an adjective phrase to modify a noun. Ludwig examples show its usage to depict physical structures or abstract concepts characterized by multiple layers or stages. It emphasizes the cumulative or progressive nature of what it describes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "level upon level" is a grammatically sound and descriptive phrase, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Although not extremely frequent, it is primarily found in news articles, scientific publications, and academic texts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and appropriateness. Use this phrase to emphasize layering, escalation, or cumulative impact in your writing. Be mindful of overusing it in simple enumerations, and instead reserve it for situations where you want to create a vivid and impactful description. Related phrases such as "tier upon tier", and "layer after layer" offer similar ways to express the concept of multiple layers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

layer after layer

Uses "layer" instead of "level" and repeats the noun with "after" for emphasis.

tier upon tier

Replaces "level" with "tier", suggesting a structured ranking or arrangement.

story upon story

Emphasizes height or vertical accumulation using "story", typically in the context of buildings.

one level above another

More explicit and descriptive, lacks the concise impact of "level upon level".

successive stages

Focuses on progressive development rather than physical layering.

step by step

Highlights a gradual, incremental progression; less about physical levels.

degree after degree

Implies a gradual increase in intensity or magnitude.

rank upon rank

Conveys a sense of numerous items arranged in rows or formations, especially people.

course after course

Often used when referring to different stages in a meal or training regime.

pile upon pile

Suggests an unstructured accumulation of items.

FAQs

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

You can use "level upon level" to describe physical structures with multiple tiers, such as "The ancient temple was built with "level upon level" of intricate carvings", or to illustrate abstract concepts with increasing complexity.

What are some alternatives to "level upon level"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "layer after layer", "tier upon tier", or "successive stages" to convey similar meanings.

Is "level upon level" a formal or informal expression?

"Level upon level" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it is more common in descriptive writing or when emphasizing the magnitude of something. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its acceptability.

In what situations is "level upon level" most appropriate?

This phrase is best used when you want to emphasize the layered or escalating nature of something, whether it's a physical structure like a building or an abstract concept like increasing complexity. It effectively conveys a sense of cumulative impact.