Pronunciation: [blˈə͡ʊ əpˌɒn] (IPA) 
The phrase "blow upon" consists of two syllables: "blow" and "up-on." The first syllable "blow" is pronounced as /bloʊ/, with a long "o" sound followed by a "w" sound. The second syllable "upon" is pronounced as /əˈpɒn/, with a schwa sound followed by a short "o" sound and a "n" sound. Therefore, the correct spelling of this phrase is "blow upon" and not "blow up-on," as the latter spelling would change the meaning of the phrase.
The phrase "blow upon" is a literary expression that typically refers to a forceful exhaling or casting of air onto an object or a person, often with a specific intention or effect. This term can be used metaphorically to convey various meanings depending on the context. Primarily, it signifies the act of breathing forcefully on something or someone, either to extinguish a flame, cool down the temperature, or to animate or revive something. It carries connotations of exerting an influence through the act of blowing.
Metaphorically, "blow upon" can imply the idea of criticizing, chastising, or condemning someone or something in an intense or forceful manner. It suggests the act of exerting words or actions to diminish the reputation, impact, or credibility of an individual or concept. In this sense, "blow upon" can also connote the act of revealing unsavory or hidden information that jeopardizes someone's reputation.
Furthermore, "blow upon" can portray the act of bringing attention, focus, or influence to a particular subject or issue. It usually involves highlighting or emphasizing the significance or importance of a matter, often to instigate action or promote change.
Ultimately, "blow upon" conveys the idea of forcefully expelling air or energy towards something or someone, whether in a literal or figurative sense, to influence, alter, or impact the object or person in some way.
The term "blow upon" originated from Old English roots. Here is the breakdown of its etymology:
1. "Blow": This word traces back to the Old English word "blāwan", which means "to emit a current of air, breath, or wind". Its Indo-European root is "bhle-", meaning "to blow". This word has cognates in other Germanic languages like Old High German "blāen" and Old Norse "blā".
2. "Upon": "Upon" comes from the Old English word "uppan", which means "on, upon, up to, in". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "uppō", ultimately from the Indo-European root "upo", which translates to "under".
Combining these two Old English words gives us "blow upon", which signifies "to emit or direct a current of air or breath onto something or someone".
