On synonym,synonyms of on

“On” is a very common preposition with multiple meanings, and here are some of its synonyms along with their analyses:

Meaning: “Upon” has a very similar meaning to “on” and is often used in more formal or literary contexts. It indicates a position physically above and in contact with something else. For example, “The book was lying upon the table.” It can also be used in phrases like “upon reflection” which means after thinking about something. In such expressions, it gives a slightly more formal or old-fashioned touch compared to using “on”.
Example: “She placed the delicate vase upon the mantelpiece with great care.”

Meaning: “Over” can sometimes be a synonym for “on” when it refers to a position covering or resting on the surface of something. However, “over” often implies a sense of being above or across in a more extensive way. For example, “The blanket was over the bed” (it's covering the bed). But there are also differences in usage. For instance, we say “put on your clothes” but usually “put a coat over your clothes” when we mean adding an extra layer on top. In some cases where “on” indicates contact with a surface, “over” might suggest a looser or more covering relationship.
Example: “He put the tarp over the car to protect it from the rain.”

Meaning: “Onto” is used to show movement to a position on a surface. It combines the idea of movement and the final position “on”. For example, “The cat jumped onto the chair.” It emphasizes the action of getting or being placed on something. In contrast, “on” might just describe the static position. If we just say “The cat is on the chair”, it's simply stating where the cat is. But when we say “The cat jumped onto the chair”, we're highlighting the action that led to it being in that position.
Example: “She climbed onto the stage to receive her award.”

Meaning: “Aboard” is mainly used when referring to getting or being on a vehicle like a ship, plane, or train. For example, “The passengers went aboard the ship.” It has a specific connection to transportation and the idea of being inside or on a means of travel. While “on” can also be used in these contexts (e.g. “on the ship”), “aboard” makes it clearer that we're talking about the act of getting on or being on a particular vehicle for the journey.
Example: “They welcomed us aboard the airplane as we stepped inside.”

Meaning: “Atop” means on the top of something. It's a bit more specific in emphasizing the highest part or surface. For example, “The flag was flying atop the building.” It gives a more precise location on the upper part of an object or structure. In comparison to “on”, which can refer to any position on a surface, “atop” narrows it down to the uppermost position.
Example: “The bird perched atop the fence post.”