add up

USAGE SUMMARY

"add up" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to describe an action of summing items or pieces of information, such as: "I added up the numbers and got a total of fifty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Add up the total.

The New York Times

Absences add up".

The New York Times

Things add up quickly".

The New York Times

Add up your numbers.

The New York Times

Does it add up?

The New York Times

Can't add up".

The Guardian

Only machines add up.

The New Yorker

"It could add up".

The New York Times

They wouldn't add up".

The Guardian - Books

How can that add up?

Independent

That can add up".

Journal of Patient-Reported Outcomes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "add up" to mean 'make sense', ensure the context clearly indicates a lack of logical consistency or coherence, rather than a numerical calculation. This is a common idiom and its meaning should be evident.

Common error

Avoid using "add up" solely in numerical contexts when intending to convey that something 'makes sense' or is logically consistent. If you mean to indicate logical coherence, ensure the surrounding text supports this idiomatic meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "add up" primarily functions as a verb indicating summation or accumulation. It also has an idiomatic function, expressing whether something is logical or consistent. Ludwig examples demonstrate both usages.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Wiki

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "add up" is a versatile expression with two primary meanings: to calculate a sum and to make sense or be consistent. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical standing and demonstrates its frequent use across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. When writing, remember to ensure the context clarifies whether you are referring to a numerical calculation or logical coherence, to avoid misinterpretation. Though generally neutral in tone, its usage should align with the desired level of formality in your writing. Be mindful of idiomatic meanings, for enhanced clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

add together

A more explicit phrasing of combining numbers.

calculate the sum

This alternative focuses on the mathematical aspect of finding a total.

tally the total

This phrase emphasizes the process of counting and reaching a final amount.

accumulate to

This option highlights the gradual increase and eventual reaching of a certain amount.

amount to

This suggests a final quantity or result.

make sense

This alternative shifts the meaning to indicate coherence or logical consistency.

compute the total

A more formal way to express the calculation of a final sum.

total the figures

This emphasizes the act of totaling specific numbers or amounts.

arrive at a sum

Highlights the process of reaching a final calculation.

prove consistent

Similar to "make sense", this suggests logical coherence.

FAQs

How can I use "add up" in a sentence?

"Add up" can be used to mean to calculate a sum, as in "Add up the expenses". It can also mean to make sense, as in "His alibi doesn't "add up"".

What does it mean when someone says 'it doesn't add up'?

When someone says 'it doesn't "add up"', they mean that something is inconsistent, illogical, or doesn't make sense. It implies there are discrepancies or missing pieces in a situation.

What's the difference between "add up" and "calculate"?

"Add up" often refers to a simple summation or accumulation, and can also have an idiomatic meaning related to coherence. "Calculate" is a more formal term, generally implying a complex or precise computation.

Which is correct, "add up" or "add them up"?

Both "add up" and "add them up" are correct, but they are used slightly differently. "Add up" is used when the objects are already identified or understood such as 'The bills "add up" to $100'. "Add them up" requires explicitly referencing what is being added such as 'Add the expenses up'.