leap upon
phr. v.. B2 Upper Intermediate Oxford
phr. v.. to jump onto something suddenly or eagerly, often with force or enthusiasm.
phr. v.. to move suddenly and forcefully into a position or onto a surface, typically with intent or urgency; the preposition 'upon' is used here rather than 'onto' in more formal or literary contexts.
The dog leaped upon the couch when it saw the visitor.
She leaped upon the opportunity to study abroad without hesitation.
The athlete leaped upon the podium, his eyes gleaming with triumph as the crowd roared.
- Particles
- upon
- Separability
- inseparable
- Pattern
- leap + upon + object
Usage
followed by a noun indicating the target of the leap; 'upon' is more formal than 'onto' in this context.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'leap onto' (more common in modern usage) and note that 'leap upon' carries a slightly more literary or dramatic tone.