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fix upon

C1 formal inseparable transitive
In simple words

To look very hard at something or to firmly decide on something — used in formal or old-fashioned English.

Meanings

1 C1 idiomatic formal

To direct one's gaze or attention steadily and intensely at someone or something.

"His eyes fixed upon the stranger across the room and did not waver."

Grammar: inseparable
2 C1 idiomatic formal

To choose or decide on something after deliberation.

"After long debate, the committee fixed upon a new strategy for the coming year."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Predominantly found in literary writing, historical texts, and formal prose. In everyday modern speech, 'fix on' or 'settle on' is preferred. Learners may encounter this in classic novels.

Commonly used with

gaze eyes attention choice idea plan

Forms

Base
fix upon
I/you/we/they
3rd person
fixes upon
he/she/it
Past simple
fixed upon
yesterday
Past participle
fixed upon
have + pp
-ing form
fixing upon
continuous

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Synonyms

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