stands upon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stands upon" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a position or foundation, often in a metaphorical sense, such as principles or beliefs. Example: "The success of the project stands upon the commitment of the entire team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"If life has a base that it stands upon," she wrote, "if it is a bowl that one fills and fills and fills – then my bowl without a doubt stands upon this memory".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A young girl sketched in basic, picture-book style stands upon a leaf, holding a pair of batons.

The Guardian - Arts

The senior officers and navigators plot over their aerial maps beneath a ceremonial wedding throne that stands upon the stage.

The New York Times - Magazine

The temple usually stands upon a lofty terraced plinth (a block serving as a base), which itself also symbolized a mountain.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Singer Matt Shultz comes on in a dress, stands upon the speaker stacks while banging his head on the ceiling, then teeters over the crowd, to gasps.

The Guardian - Music

She stands upon a stretch of soft green grass and the background is layered breezy blocks of pale blue, deep navy and gauzy pink.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

In his house, it became a perfect symbol of the past, standing on a rug like the one it originally stood upon, with a silver pitcher on it as of old.

The New Yorker

Many stood upon the seats, others stood upon stools placed on the seats.

The New York Times

Two men in horse-riding clothes stood upon a plain.

The New Yorker

These chupacabras were smaller and stood upon four feet.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There is a role for everyone; You simply stand upon a stage, and that is Art.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stands upon" to denote a tangible or abstract base or foundation. Ensure that the subject clearly relies on the object of the preposition for support or existence.

Common error

Avoid using "stands upon" when a more direct verb like 'supports' or 'includes' would be clearer. Overusing figurative language can obscure the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stands upon" functions primarily as a verb phrase with a preposition, indicating a state of being supported or founded on something. It suggests a base or foundation, whether literal or figurative, that something relies on. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stands upon" is a versatile phrase used to describe the foundation or support of something, whether tangible or abstract. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically sound and common in various writing contexts, notably in news, encyclopedias, and scientific writing. While "stands upon" can be powerful, consider alternatives like "is based on" or "rests on" for clarity and precision depending on your intent. Ensure the relationship between the subject and its foundation is clear to avoid ambiguity. By using "stands upon" thoughtfully, you can enhance the descriptive quality of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is based on

Emphasizes the idea of a foundation or underlying principle, often used in more formal contexts.

rests on

Implies a reliance or dependence on something, suggesting that the stability depends on a support.

is founded on

Highlights the establishment or creation of something with a specific basis.

relies upon

Similar to 'rests on' but can also imply a need or necessity for support.

is predicated on

A more formal and technical alternative, often used in philosophical or logical contexts.

is supported by

Focuses on the active support or reinforcement provided by something.

is built upon

Suggests a progressive construction or development based on a prior foundation.

depends on

Indicates a conditional relationship where the existence or outcome is contingent on something else.

is contingent on

Similar to 'depends on' but more explicitly highlights the conditional nature.

is grounded in

Emphasizes that something is deeply rooted or firmly established in a particular basis.

FAQs

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

Use "stands upon" to describe something that relies on a foundation or basis. For example, "The success of the company "stands upon" the dedication of its employees."

What are some alternatives to "stands upon"?

Alternatives include "is based on", "rests on", or "is founded on", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "stands upon" or "is based on"?

"Stands upon" can be more evocative, while "is based on" is generally more direct and formal. Choose the option that best suits the tone and context of your writing.

What's the difference between "stands upon" and "relies on"?

"Stands upon" often implies a physical or metaphorical structure, whereas "relies on" emphasizes dependence. The phrase "stands upon" indicates support from beneath, while "relies on" indicates reliance for success or continued function.