do sums

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do sums" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is usually used as a verb, for example: "I need to do sums to prepare for the math exam".

✓ Grammatically correct

Education

Mathematics

General Conversation

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Employers complain that even those who have passed the exams often can't spell or do sums.

The Economist

Calculators were forbidden until students could do sums in their heads.

The Economist

The more there are, the faster the machine can do sums.

The Guardian - Tech

"Or they use them to do sums, or jot down things or send messages of love".

The Guardian

MESSAGE His 1984 book "Tough Times Never Last, but Tough People Do" sums up his upbeat ministry.

The New York Times

Many teenagers drop out because they left primary school unable to read and do sums, and never caught up.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

2day i try 2 do sum siteseein.

The Guardian - Film

Those weren't, of course, his exact words in his Autumn Statement, but they do sum up his grim message.

BBC

Though upon consideration, they really do sum up the whole thing very well: they're all cock and no balls.

Vice

"To show the character we did sums up our season.

The Guardian - Sport

Emma perches on a high stool at the kitchen counter, doing sums in her math book.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "do sums" when referring to basic arithmetic or simple calculations, especially in informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "do sums" in professional or academic writing. Opt for more formal alternatives like "perform calculations" or "compute figures".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do sums" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of performing basic arithmetic calculations. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's a common expression found in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

22%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

The Economist

5%

The Guardian

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "do sums" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase that signifies performing basic arithmetic calculations. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's essential to note the register. As the analysis reveals, it is more fitting for informal conversations and general contexts. For formal or professional scenarios, consider using alternatives such as "perform calculations" or "compute numbers" to maintain a more appropriate tone. The phrase is frequently found in News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perform calculations

Replaces the informal "do sums" with a more formal term for mathematical operations.

make calculations

Similar to "perform calculations" but slightly less formal.

calculate figures

Emphasizes the act of computing numerical values.

figure out sums

Emphasizes the understanding and resolution of mathematical problems.

work out totals

Focuses on finding the aggregate or final amount.

handle arithmetic

Focuses specifically on dealing with basic mathematical operations.

compute numbers

A more technical and formal way of saying "do sums".

process numbers

Refers to the systematic handling and manipulation of numerical data.

solve equations

Highlights the process of finding solutions to mathematical problems.

undertake computations

A very formal and professional term for mathematical calculations.

FAQs

What does it mean to "do sums"?

To "do sums" means to perform basic arithmetic calculations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "do sums"?

The phrase "do sums" is appropriate in informal contexts, such as casual conversations or when teaching basic math to children. In more formal settings, consider using phrases like "perform calculations" or "calculate figures".

Are there any situations where I shouldn't use "do sums"?

Avoid using "do sums" in formal writing, professional reports, or academic papers. It may sound too informal or simplistic for these contexts.

What are some alternative ways to say "do sums"?

Alternatives include "perform calculations", "calculate figures", "work out totals", or "compute numbers", depending on the specific context and level of formality required.