upon my soul

Definitions

Expressing astonishment or sincerity.

dated

Examples

“My son writes me word that Mr. Vesey's family are angry with me for inserting some lines in the Legion Club touching him. Upon my soul, I never inserted one line in it; and upon the whole, I care not whether they believe⟳ me or not.”

““Why then, upon my soul,” cries Benjamin, “it would require⟳ a great deal⟳ of art to keep⟳ you from being well after a very few dressings; and if you will suffer⟳ me to apply⟳ some salve of mine, I will answer⟳ for the success.” Jones gave his consent, and the plaister was applied accordingly.”

“'Now, upon my soul, you know⟳,' said Mr Chuckster, shaking his head gravely, as men are wont to do when they consider⟳ things are going a little too far, 'this is altogether such a low-minded affair, that if I didn't feel⟳ for the governor, and know⟳ that he could never get⟳ on without me, I should be obliged to cut⟳ the connection.'”

“Oh, no, my dear, I ordered that six months ago, just to be on the safe side. But upon my soul, I was sure then that we'd be on board⟳ to-day.”

CEFR level