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add up

A2 neutral inseparable both
In simple words

To find the total of several numbers, or to make sense when you think about it.

Literal meaning: To combine numbers by adding them, building upward to a total.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To calculate the total of a set of numbers by adding them together.

"Add up all the prices before you go to the checkout."

Grammar: separable
2 B1 idiomatic informal

To seem logical or consistent; to make sense (often used in the negative).

"His explanation just doesn't add up — there are too many contradictions."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 idiomatic neutral

To accumulate to a significant amount over time.

"Small daily savings really add up over the course of a year."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Extremely common in both literal (maths) and figurative (logic) uses. The negative 'doesn't add up' is very common to express suspicion or inconsistency. Also: small amounts 'add up' over time (accumulate).

Commonly used with

figures costs numbers story expenses total

Forms

Base
add up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
adds up
he/she/it
Past simple
added up
yesterday
Past participle
added up
have + pp
-ing form
adding up
continuous

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Synonyms

calculate total make sense tally accumulate mount up

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