it adds up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it adds up" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something makes sense or is logical based on the information provided. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, it adds up that the suspect was at the scene of the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 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

It adds up to exhilaration.

The New Yorker

It adds up to a dreadful mess.

The Economist

It adds up to far, far less.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

It added up to devastation.

The New York Times

So does it add up?

Independent

It added up to one thing.

The New York Times

What does it add up to?

The New York Times - Arts

It added up to a sloppy dish.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it adds up" to signal a logical conclusion or a cumulative effect in your writing, ensuring the context provides sufficient information for the conclusion to be easily understood by the reader. This will enhance clarity and strengthen your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "it adds up" when merely summing numerical values without a logical connection or resulting insight; instead, use it to express a meaningful consequence derived from multiple contributing factors. For example, instead of saying "The sum of these numbers is 10, so it adds up," rather express: "The repeated delays and lack of communication added up to project failure."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it adds up" functions as an idiomatic expression. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase suggests that something makes sense or is logical. The phrase often appears at the end of an explanation or series of facts, summarizing that the preceding information leads to a reasonable or expected conclusion. Examples show its use in varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

18%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it adds up" is a common and versatile idiomatic expression used to indicate that something makes sense or is logically consistent. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used. While primarily found in news and media contexts, it also appears in academic and informal settings. To enhance clarity, ensure the context provides sufficient information for the conclusion to be easily understood. Alternatives include "it makes sense" and "it checks out", but the most appropriate choice depends on the specific context. When used correctly, "it adds up" strengthens arguments and adds a touch of colloquial understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it makes sense

This alternative focuses on the logical coherence or understandability of a situation.

it checks out

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

it figures

This suggests that something is predictable or expected given the circumstances.

it all comes together

Highlights the culmination of different elements forming a cohesive whole.

the pieces fit

Focuses on the alignment of individual components to create a complete picture.

it computes

This alternative, less common, emphasizes a calculation or logical deduction.

it is consistent

Emphasizes the absence of contradictions or discrepancies.

it is coherent

Highlights the logical and organized structure of something.

it accumulates

Focuses on the gradual increase or buildup of something over time.

the total is

This phrase is used to indicate a final sum or conclusion.

FAQs

What does "it adds up" mean?

The phrase "it adds up" means that something makes sense or is logical based on the available information. It suggests that different pieces of information combine to form a coherent or understandable picture.

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

You can use "it adds up" to indicate that a series of events or facts leads to a reasonable conclusion. For instance, "Given his suspicious behavior and lack of alibi, "it adds up" that he was involved in the crime."

What are some alternatives to "it adds up"?

You can use alternatives like "it makes sense", "it checks out", or "it figures", depending on the context.

Is "it adds up" formal or informal language?

"It adds up" is generally considered informal language. While acceptable in many contexts, more formal settings may benefit from phrases like "it is consistent with" or "it is coherent" for enhanced clarity and professionalism.