build upon
B1 formal inseparable transitive
In simple words
To use something as a starting point to create something even better.
Literal meaning: To construct something physically on top of something else.
Meanings
1 B1 formal
To use existing achievements, ideas, or strengths as a basis for further progress.
"The new director pledged to build upon the reforms introduced by her predecessor."
"We must build upon the achievements of the civil rights movement."
— Martin Luther King Jr., attributed in multiple commemorative speeches and writings
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Functionally identical to 'build on' but preferred in formal written English, academic writing, and speeches. Very common in political rhetoric and academic discourse.
Commonly used with
success legacy knowledge experience achievements principles
Forms
Base
build upon
I/you/we/they
3rd person
builds upon
he/she/it
Past simple
built upon
yesterday
Past participle
built upon
have + pp
-ing form
building upon
continuous
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