settle upon
B2 formal inseparable transitive
In simple words
To finally pick something after thinking about it — a fancier way of saying 'settle on'.
Literal meaning: To come to rest upon a surface — the same spatial metaphor as 'settle on'.
Meanings
1 B2 formal
To reach a final decision about something after deliberation (formal/written register).
"The committee eventually settled upon a compromise that satisfied both parties."
Grammar: inseparable
2 C1
idiomatic
formal
(Legal/formal) To transfer property, money, or an estate to a beneficiary.
"The estate was settled upon the eldest daughter according to the terms of the will."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
More common in written English, formal speech, and British English. In everyday spoken English, 'settle on' is strongly preferred. Also used in legal contexts for transferring property.
Commonly used with
plan course of action name figure strategy date
Forms
Base
settle upon
I/you/we/they
3rd person
settles upon
he/she/it
Past simple
settled upon
yesterday
Past participle
settled upon
have + pp
-ing form
settling upon
continuous
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