# whereupon

/ˈhwɛɹəˈpɑn/ (US) · /wˈeəɹəpˌɒn/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Conjunction

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/whereupon
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

immediately after which something else happens. You use this to connect two parts of a sentence when one action causes or leads directly to the next.

For teachers: immediately following which; used to introduce a clause describing a consequence or a subsequent action. Functions as a relative adverb or subordinating conjunction in formal narrative contexts.

## Examples

- He finished his speech, whereupon the audience began to clap.
- The witness finished her testimony, whereupon the judge called for a brief recess before the cross-examination began.
- The CEO announced the unexpected merger to the board, whereupon several members immediately resigned in protest of the new corporate direction.

## Usage notes

- Used to join two clauses where the second event follows the first in time or as a result. Primarily found in formal writing or legal documents.

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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.