The formal and literary variant of 'shine down on'; to direct light or figurative favour downward onto a person or place.
When light or something good falls down onto someone from above — said in a fancy or poetic way.
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To send light downward onto a person or place (literal, elevated register).
"The winter sun shone down upon the frost-covered fields, creating a scene of rare beauty."
Let it shine down upon you.
— Various religious and poetic traditions; common formulation in hymnody
To bestow divine favour, blessing, or grace upon someone (figurative, religious/poetic).
"May the light of peace shine down upon all who suffer in this conflict."
To emit light that travels downward and lands upon something — entirely transparent.
When light or something good falls down onto someone from above — said in a fancy or poetic way.
Essentially interchangeable with 'shine down on' but with a higher register. Found frequently in poetry, religious writing, and formal speeches. The use of 'upon' elevates the style noticeably.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "shine down upon" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.