adds up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adds up" is used in written English.
It is used to refer to a conclusion or explanation that is the result of connecting various facts or details together. For example, "After looking over the receipts, the accountant realized that all the amounts added up correctly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It adds up," Girardi said.

The New York Times - Sports

"And it adds up quickly".

The New York Times - Sports

"It adds up," she said.

The New York Times

That adds up to trouble.

The New York Times

It adds up to exhilaration.

The New Yorker

This stuff adds up".

The New York Times

It all adds up".

The New York Times

Nothing adds up here.

The New Yorker

"It just adds up".

The New York Times

All of this adds up to eros.

The New Yorker

It adds up to a dreadful mess.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "adds up" to indicate that a series of facts or observations logically lead to a particular conclusion or understanding. It is often used when piecing together information.

Common error

Avoid using "adds up" to describe basic arithmetic sums. It's more appropriate when describing a situation where multiple factors combine to create a coherent explanation or outcome, rather than a simple calculation.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "adds up" primarily functions as an intransitive verb, indicating that a set of facts or details collectively lead to a coherent or logical conclusion. Ludwig AI confirms its usage through numerous examples, showing how it connects disparate pieces of information to form a comprehensive understanding.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "adds up" is a commonly used expression that indicates how multiple elements contribute to a coherent explanation or conclusion. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and frequently used in diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral, it is essential to avoid using "adds up" in contexts describing basic arithmetic. Alternatives such as "makes sense" or "amounts to" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Understanding the appropriate context and avoiding common errors will enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

makes sense

This alternative emphasizes logical coherence and understanding.

is consistent

This alternative stresses the alignment and lack of contradictions between different elements.

accumulates

This alternative highlights the gradual increase or buildup of something.

results in

This alternative focuses on the final outcome or consequence of a series of actions or events.

amounts to

This alternative suggests a total or aggregate value is reached.

checks out

This alternative implies that something has been verified and found to be accurate or valid.

proves true

This alternative emphasizes the verification and validation of a statement or idea.

logically follows

This alternative stresses the sequence and natural progression of ideas or events.

is the sum

This alternative highlights the final tally of something.

is the explanation

This alternative emphasizes the clarification and resolution of a mystery or problem.

FAQs

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

You can use "adds up" to indicate that several pieces of information, when considered together, lead to a logical conclusion. For example, "The evidence all "adds up" to a strong case against the defendant".

What can I say instead of "adds up"?

You can use alternatives like "makes sense", "is consistent", or "amounts to" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "adds up"?

"Adds up" is appropriate when you want to convey that a series of observations or facts logically lead to a specific conclusion. It's not suitable for describing simple arithmetic calculations.

What's the difference between "adds up" and "makes sense"?

While both phrases indicate a sense of logical coherence, ""adds up"" suggests that the coherence is the result of combining multiple elements, while "makes sense" simply indicates that something is understandable or logical on its own.