# dwell upon

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dwell-upon
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to spend a lot of time thinking or talking about something, especially something sad or unpleasant.

For teachers: to linger on a particular thought or topic; specifically to obsess over or ruminate on a past event or negative situation. Often used with abstract objects.

## Examples

- You shouldn't dwell upon your past mistakes.
- Instead of looking for a new job, he continued to dwell upon the reasons why he was fired.
- The novelist tends to dwell upon themes of isolation and loss, creating a somber atmosphere that permeates every chapter of the book.

## Pitfalls

- Not "Don't dwell to the problem." but "Don't dwell upon the problem." — The verb 'dwell' requires the preposition 'upon' or 'on' to connect to the object of thought.

## Usage notes

- Usually followed by a negative experience or a problem that cannot be changed.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'think about'; 'dwell upon' implies a lack of progress or an unhealthy focus. Note that 'dwell on' is more common in modern speech, while 'dwell upon' feels slightly more formal or literary.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.