to top

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to top" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used as a verb phrase to mean something is added or placed on the top of something else. It can also be used figuratively to mean something is better or surpasses something else. Example: - "I like to top my pancakes with syrup and berries." - "His performance in the game topped all expectations." - "To top it off, the weather was perfect for our outdoor picnic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

No wonder.Back to top >>.

The Economist

How to top that?

Independent

Tap to top.

The New York Times - Tech

Nothing's going to top this".

The New York Times - Sports

[return to top of page].

The Guardian

How to top all that?

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Do a bottom-to-top belly roll.

WikiHow

Back to top... * Innovation.

Science Magazine

Back to top... * RPGs.

Science Magazine

Back to top... * R01 Types.

Science Magazine

Back to top... * Other Resources.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to top" when you want to convey the idea of surpassing something, adding a final element, or reaching a high point. Be mindful of the context to choose the most appropriate synonym for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "to top" in highly formal writing where more sophisticated synonyms like "to surpass" or "to exceed" might be more appropriate. Overusing informal phrases can diminish the impact of your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to top" functions primarily as an infinitive verb phrase, indicating an action to be performed. It can be used transitively, requiring a direct object, or intransitively, depending on the context. Ludwig AI confirms its versatile usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

35%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to top" is a versatile infinitive verb phrase commonly used to convey surpassing, enhancing, or completing something. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and sees frequent use in news and media, as well as in instructional wiki content. While generally neutral in register, more formal synonyms like "to surpass" or "to exceed" may be preferable in academic or professional contexts. "To top" offers a direct and effective way to express the idea of reaching a high point or adding a final touch.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to exceed

Replaces "top" with a synonym that emphasizes surpassing a limit or expectation.

to surpass

Similar to "exceed", focusing on going beyond a specific level or achievement.

to outdo

Implies doing something better than someone else.

to enhance

Focuses on improving or adding something to the existing state.

to crown

Metaphorically suggests placing something at the highest point or as the best part.

to cap

Suggests finishing something off, or putting a limit.

to finish off

Implies completing something in a spectacular way, often better than expected.

to be superior to

Highlights a state of being better or higher in quality than something else.

to put the finishing touch on

Focuses on adding the final detail that perfects something.

to reach the pinnacle

Implies achieving the highest possible point or level.

FAQs

How can I use "to top" in a sentence?

You can use "to top" in various contexts. For example, "I like "to top" my ice cream with chocolate sauce", or "The team's performance "topped" all expectations".

What can I say instead of "to top"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to exceed", "to surpass", or "to outdo".

Is it always appropriate to use "to top" in formal writing?

While "to top" is grammatically correct, it may be too informal for some formal contexts. Consider using a more sophisticated synonym such as "to surpass" or "to exceed" in academic or professional documents.

What's the difference between "to top" and "to finish off"?

"To top" often implies adding something extra or surpassing a previous achievement, while "to finish off" suggests completing something, often in a satisfying or spectacular way. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize enhancement or completion.