The phrase "depend upon" is spelled with the sounds /dɪˈpɛnd/ and /əˈpɒn/. The first sound is /dɪ/ which is pronounced like "dih". The second sound is /ə/, which is pronounced like the "uh" in "up". The stress falls on the second syllable. The final sound, /n/, is pronounced like the "n" in "new". The word is commonly misspelled as "depend on", leaving out the second word in the phrase. It is important to use the correct spelling to ensure clear communication in written and spoken language.
Depend upon is a phrasal verb that conveys the idea of relying on someone or something for support, assistance, or guidance. It refers to the notion of being dependent on or trusting in a particular person, object, or situation for a specific purpose or outcome.
When one says they depend upon someone, they are expressing their reliance on that person's presence, capabilities, or resources. It suggests a level of expectation and trust in the reliability and effectiveness of the individual being depended upon. For instance, if a student is struggling with a particular subject, they might depend upon their teacher for guidance and clarification.
On the other hand, depending upon something refers to relying on a resource or circumstance for a desired outcome. This highlights the belief that achieving the desired result is contingent on a specific condition or factor. For example, a farmer may depend upon rainfall for the growth and health of their crops.
Overall, depend upon conveys the idea of reliance, trust, and expectation towards someone or something. It implies the understanding that a certain person or element is fundamental or necessary for a particular purpose or achievement. Whether it is an individual's support or an external circumstance, depending upon often signifies the recognition of the importance of external influences for personal success or desired outcomes.
The word "depend" originated from the Latin word "dependere", which is a combination of the prefix "de-" meaning "down" and the word "pendere" meaning "to hang". In its literal sense, "depend" thus means "to hang down" or "to hang from".
The word "upon" has Germanic roots and can be traced back to the Old English word "uppan", which evolved into "upon" in Middle English. "Upon" essentially means "on" or "on top of".
When combined, "depend upon" expresses the idea of something relying or resting on something else, similar to how something hangs down from or rests on something.