chalk up to
B1 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words
To say that something happened because of a certain reason, usually something you can't control.
Literal meaning: To write something on a chalkboard and assign it to a particular cause — like crediting a score to one side.
Meanings
1 B1
idiomatic
informal
To explain or accept something negative by attributing it to a particular cause, often without dwelling on it.
"She chalked her poor exam result up to nerves and vowed to do better next time."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To give credit or assign responsibility for something positive to a particular source.
"The coach chalked their success up to months of disciplined training."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often used when accepting or dismissing something negative by explaining it away. Frequently used with 'experience', 'bad luck', 'inexperience', or 'the times'. The tone is usually philosophical or accepting.
Commonly used with
experience bad luck inexperience circumstance fate timing
Forms
Base
chalk up to
I/you/we/they
3rd person
chalks up to
he/she/it
Past simple
chalked up to
yesterday
Past participle
chalked up to
have + pp
-ing form
chalking up to
continuous
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Synonyms
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