that amount to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that amount to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a total or sum that results from a calculation or consideration of various factors. Example: "The expenses for the project that amount to over $10,000 need to be approved by the board."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

How much time would that amount to?

The New Yorker

He won it - if he won it - illegitimately, by techniques that amount to unprosecuted crimes.

The Guardian - Opinion

The difference is that the Jets are paying that amount to four players, not one.

The New York Times - Sports

Migrants in Libya often work in conditions that amount to slave labour.

The Guardian

"And I've seen flip taxes that amount to tens of thousands of dollars".

The New York Times

But what about rebates for posting online that amount to three-quarters of the cost?

The New York Times

The remaining nine were given limited sanctions that amount to written warnings.

The Guardian

And she currently faces trial in Italy, on charges that amount to blasphemy, of all things.

The New Yorker

Federal appeals courts should throw out sentences that amount to an abuse of that discretion.

The New York Times

All the sentences are like that, small masterpieces that amount to a large one.

The New Yorker

Mr. Simon's campaign hopes he can raise half that amount to spend on television advertising.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that amount to", ensure the context clearly establishes what 'that amount' refers to. For example, start by mentioning a specific quantity or sum, then follow with "that amount to" and its consequence or representation.

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by ensuring "that amount" clearly refers to a previously stated quantity. If the antecedent is unclear, rephrase the sentence to specify the amount directly. For example, instead of "Expenses increased, that amount to a significant loss", write "Expenses increased, leading to a significant loss of [specific amount] ".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that amount to" functions as a linking phrase, connecting a previously mentioned quantity to its result, consequence, or equivalent. It clarifies what a specific sum represents in a given situation. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

92%

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that amount to" is a versatile phrase used to link a specific quantity to its outcome or consequence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and commonly used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. To ensure clarity, make sure "that amount" has a clear antecedent. While suitable for both formal and informal communication, it maintains a neutral, professional register. Alternatives like "equates to" or "totals" can be used for slight variations in tone or emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

which totals

This alternative focuses on the numerical sum, implying a calculation has been made.

which equates to

Similar to 'totals', but slightly more formal and suggests an equivalence.

that comes to

Implies a calculation resulting in a final figure.

which represents

This highlights the relationship between the amount and what it signifies or embodies.

that is equivalent to

Expresses a direct equivalence in value or effect.

which approximates to

Indicates an estimation or close resemblance.

that corresponds to

Shows a link or correlation between the amount and something else.

that boils down to

This suggests a simplification or reduction to a core meaning or result.

that signifies

Emphasizes the meaning or importance of the amount.

that constitutes

This indicates that the amount is a part or component of a larger whole.

FAQs

How can I use "that amount to" in a sentence?

You can use "that amount to" to specify the result or consequence of a particular quantity or action. For instance, "The project's cost overruns "that amount to" a significant budget deficit."

What are some alternatives to "that amount to"?

Alternatives include phrases like "equates to", "totals", or "comes to". For example, "The total expenses "equates to" $500."

Is it more formal to use "that amount to" or "which totals"?

"That amount to" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts. "Which totals" may sound slightly more technical or specific when emphasizing a sum or calculation.

What's the difference between "that amount to" and "that is equal to"?

"That amount to" often implies a result or consequence, while "that is equal to" simply expresses a mathematical equivalence. For example, "The damages "that amount to" a significant financial burden", versus "Five plus five "that is equal to" ten".