Browse all

pitch upon

C1 formal inseparable transitive

To select or decide on something, typically somewhat casually or suddenly (formal/archaic variant of 'pitch on').

In plain English

To choose something, often quickly or without much thought.

What does "pitch upon" mean?

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 C1 idiomatic formal

To choose or decide on something, often somewhat spontaneously (archaic/literary).

"After much deliberation, the committee pitched upon a date for the annual gala."

inseparable

Literal vs figurative

Words literally mean

To pitch (fall or land) upon a particular option — as if one's choice has alighted on something.

Actually means

To choose something, often quickly or without much thought.

Usage tip

Archaic or literary variant of 'pitch on'. Rarely used in contemporary everyday English. More likely to appear in older texts, literature, or formal writing. Functionally identical to 'pitch on' and 'hit upon'. Modern speakers would typically use 'settle on', 'decide on', or 'hit upon' instead.

Words that pair with "pitch upon"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

plan idea name solution course of action

How to conjugate "pitch upon"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
pitch upon
I/you/we/they
3rd person
pitches upon
he/she/it
Past simple
pitched upon
yesterday
Past participle
pitched upon
have + pp
-ing form
pitching upon
continuous

Hear "pitch upon" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "pitch upon" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Other ways to say "pitch upon"

Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.

Keep exploring

Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.