To discover or think of something, especially a good idea or solution, often unexpectedly.
To suddenly think of or find a good idea, sometimes by accident.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To discover or think of a good idea, plan, or solution, often by chance or sudden inspiration.
"Newton is said to have hit upon his theory of gravity after observing a falling apple."
He hit upon the idea of using a rubber band to hold the papers together.
— The Economist (paraphrased journalistic usage, widely attested pattern)
To find or encounter something unexpectedly while searching or exploring.
"While sorting through the archive, the historian hit upon a collection of previously unknown letters."
To strike something on top of it — the leap to 'discover' is idiomatic.
To suddenly think of or find a good idea, sometimes by accident.
'Hit upon' is the more formal and literary variant of 'hit on' in the sense of discovering an idea. It is common in academic, journalistic, and historical writing. Not used for flirting.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "hit upon" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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