Differences between add up and add up to
Add up means to calculate the total of something or to make sense logically, while add up to means to equal a particular amount or result in a specific outcome.
Meanings and Definitions: add up vs add up to
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Add up
- 1To make a mathematical total.
We ADDED UP the bill to check it was correct.
- 2Be a satisfactory explanantion for something.
She explained why the work wasn't ready, but her story doesn't ADD UP.
Add up to
- 1Have a certain result.
Trains delays are getting worse and with the high fares, it all ADDS UP TO misery for the commuters.
- 2Come to a certain amount or figure.
The total costs ADD UP TO several million euros.
Usage Examples: add up, add up to in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
add up
Example
Please add up the numbers on this list.
Example
She adds up the daily expenses every evening.
add up to
Example
The numbers add up to 100.
Example
The total cost adds up to $500.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Add up
total up
To calculate the sum of several numbers or amounts.
Example
I need to total up my expenses to see if I can afford a vacation this year.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Add up to
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “up to”
Differences in add up vs add up to: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: add up or add up to?
Both add up and add up to are commonly used in everyday conversation, but add up is more frequent. It's used in various contexts, such as adding numbers, calculating expenses, or making sense of a situation. Add up to is less common and usually used when referring to a specific total or outcome.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of add up and add up to
Both add up and add up to are informal phrases that can be used in casual conversations. However, add up to may sound slightly more formal because it's often used in academic or business contexts when referring to specific amounts or results.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of add up and add up to
The tone of add up and add up to is similar, but add up to may sound more conclusive or definitive. Add up can have a curious or questioning tone when trying to make sense of something, while add up to often implies a final or ultimate result.
