After vs Upon

When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.

 AfterUpon
MeaningLater in time than something else.on or at a particular time or place
Register-formal
CEFR levelA1B1
Part of speechprepositionpreposition
Usage notesUsed to indicate time. Common in both spoken and written English. Avoid using in very formal contexts without a clear time reference.Used in more formal contexts, often in writing. Not commonly used in everyday spoken English. Avoid in casual conversations.

Frequently asked questions: After vs Upon

What's the difference between "After" and "Upon"?

"After" means: Later in time than something else. "Upon" means: on or at a particular time or place

When should I use "After" and "Upon"?

"Upon" is formal.

Are "After" and "Upon" the same CEFR level?

"After" is at A1, "Upon" is at B1 on the CEFR scale.

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