Building upon this
Academic essay writing expression
Literally: Constructing a physical structure on top of this object
In 15 Seconds
- Connects two ideas where the second expands on the first.
- Used primarily in professional, academic, or serious contexts.
- Acts as a logical bridge to show structured thinking.
Meaning
Imagine you are building a house of cards or a Lego tower. This phrase means you are taking the idea you just mentioned and adding a new, deeper layer of information on top of it.
Key Examples
3 of 6In a business meeting
Our initial research shows a gap in the market; building upon this, we've developed a new prototype.
Our initial research shows a gap in the market; building upon this, we've developed a new prototype.
Writing a university essay
Building upon this theory of relativity, later scientists explored the concept of black holes.
Building upon this theory of relativity, later scientists explored the concept of black holes.
Discussing a hobby with a friend
You've already mastered the basic chords; building upon this, we can start learning some scales.
You've already mastered the basic chords; building upon this, we can start learning some scales.
Cultural Background
In the US, this phrase is often used to show 'proactivity.' It's not enough to just state a fact; you must show how you are 'building' toward a solution. British scholars use this to show 'intellectual humility.' It acknowledges that your work is part of a larger, existing structure of knowledge. The 'Iterative' mindset. Startups 'build' on MVPs (Minimum Viable Products). This phrase is the linguistic equivalent of a software update. Used to ensure that new clauses in a contract or treaty do not contradict previous ones, but rather extend them.
The 'Yes, And' Rule
In meetings, use this phrase to disagree politely. 'I see your point about the budget. Building upon that, how can we ensure we still meet our targets?'
Don't Overstack
If you use this phrase more than twice in a row, your argument starts to feel like a 'run-on' sentence. Use it once per major point.
In 15 Seconds
- Connects two ideas where the second expands on the first.
- Used primarily in professional, academic, or serious contexts.
- Acts as a logical bridge to show structured thinking.
What It Means
Building upon this is a transition phrase used to connect two related ideas. It tells your listener that your next point isn't just a random addition. Instead, your next point relies on the foundation of the previous one. Think of it like a sandwich. You’ve just described the bread, and now you’re adding the filling. Without the bread, the filling has nowhere to go. In logic, this means your second point is a direct consequence or expansion of your first point.
How To Use It
You usually place this phrase at the very beginning of a sentence. It acts as a bridge. Start with a strong statement or a fact. Then, start your next sentence with Building upon this, followed by a comma. For example: "The company grew by 20% last year. Building upon this success, we are opening three new branches." It shows you have a clear plan and a logical mind. You aren't just jumping around; you are constructing a solid argument.
When To Use It
This is your best friend in professional and academic settings. Use it during a business presentation to show how a strategy evolves. Use it in a university essay to connect two complex theories. It’s also great for serious discussions where you want to sound persuasive. If you're trying to convince your partner to buy a specific car, you might say, "This model has the best safety rating. Building upon this, it also has the highest resale value."
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase in very casual settings. If you’re texting a friend about what pizza to order, saying Building upon this will make you sound like a robot. It’s too stiff for a night out at the pub. Also, don't use it if your two points aren't actually related. If you say, "I love dogs. Building upon this, the moon is made of cheese," people will be very confused. The second point must actually "sit" on the first one.
Cultural Background
English speakers love the metaphor of "knowledge as a building." We use words like foundation, structure, and support when we talk about ideas. This comes from a Western logical tradition that values linear progress. We like to see ideas grow upward and get stronger. Using this phrase suggests you are a systematic thinker who values order and growth.
Common Variations
You might hear Building on this, which is slightly less formal but means the exact same thing. Expanding on this is another cousin, used when you want to give more details rather than a new point. If you want to sound even more sophisticated, you could try Taking this a step further. They all live in the same neighborhood of logic.
Usage Notes
This phrase is high-register and formal. It is most effective when the connection between the two points is strong and logical. Avoid using it to start a completely new topic.
The 'Yes, And' Rule
In meetings, use this phrase to disagree politely. 'I see your point about the budget. Building upon that, how can we ensure we still meet our targets?'
Don't Overstack
If you use this phrase more than twice in a row, your argument starts to feel like a 'run-on' sentence. Use it once per major point.
Examples
6Our initial research shows a gap in the market; building upon this, we've developed a new prototype.
Our initial research shows a gap in the market; building upon this, we've developed a new prototype.
Shows the prototype is a direct result of the research findings.
Building upon this theory of relativity, later scientists explored the concept of black holes.
Building upon this theory of relativity, later scientists explored the concept of black holes.
Connects a foundational theory to a more specific application.
You've already mastered the basic chords; building upon this, we can start learning some scales.
You've already mastered the basic chords; building upon this, we can start learning some scales.
Used here to encourage progress in a structured way.
I have successfully boiled the water. Building upon this achievement, I shall now attempt to add the tea bag.
I have successfully boiled the water. Building upon this achievement, I shall now attempt to add the tea bag.
Uses formal language for a trivial task to create a comedic effect.
We've established a lot of trust lately; building upon this, I feel comfortable sharing my secret with you.
We've established a lot of trust lately; building upon this, I feel comfortable sharing my secret with you.
Shows that the emotional vulnerability is possible because of the existing trust.
The client liked the first draft. Building upon this, let's refine the color palette for the final version.
The client liked the first draft. Building upon this, let's refine the color palette for the final version.
Professional but concise for a digital message.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct phrase.
The first half of the book explains the theory. _________ upon this, the second half provides practical examples.
We use the present participle 'Building' to create a transition phrase.
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
Choose the logical sentence:
The second point must logically follow and expand upon the first.
Fill in the speaker's line.
Speaker A: 'We've successfully reduced our energy waste.' Speaker B: 'That's great. _________, we should now look at our water usage.'
'Building upon this' connects the two types of resource saving.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesThe first half of the book explains the theory. _________ upon this, the second half provides practical examples.
We use the present participle 'Building' to create a transition phrase.
Choose the logical sentence:
The second point must logically follow and expand upon the first.
Speaker A: 'We've successfully reduced our energy waste.' Speaker B: 'That's great. _________, we should now look at our water usage.'
'Building upon this' connects the two types of resource saving.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsYes, they are identical in meaning. 'Upon' is slightly more formal and common in academic writing, while 'on' is more common in business and speech.
Absolutely. It is an excellent way to link a new paragraph to the one that came before it, ensuring a smooth transition.
It might sound a bit too serious. Better to use 'Also' or 'Plus' in a text message to a friend.
Related Phrases
Expanding on this
similarTo provide more details about a topic.
In addition to this
similarAdding another point.
Taking this further
builds onTo move to a more extreme or advanced version of an idea.
On the contrary
contrastThe opposite is true.
