Differences between add up and count up
Add up and count up are both phrasal verbs that involve adding numbers, but they have different meanings. Add up means to calculate the total of a set of numbers, while count up means to add numbers together in order to reach a particular total.
Meanings and Definitions: add up vs count up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Count up
- 1Add.
COUNT UP the number of tickets sold, please.
Usage Examples: add up, count up 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.
count up
Example
Please count up the number of people who attended the meeting.
Example
She counts up the money in the cash register at the end of the day.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Add up
total up
To calculate the sum of a set of numbers.
Example
I need to total up my expenses for the month to see if I stayed within my budget.
sum up
To calculate the total of a set of numbers or values.
Example
Can you sum up the costs of the project so far?
reckon up
To calculate or estimate a total amount.
Example
He had to reckon up the cost of the materials before starting the construction work.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Count up
tally up
To count or add up numbers or scores to determine a total.
Example
We need to tally up the votes to see who won the election.
add together
To combine or join numbers or quantities to form a total.
Example
She had to add together the ingredients to make the cake batter.
To add up or calculate the total of a set of numbers or values.
Example
The accountant had to summate the company's profits and losses for the year.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “count”
Differences in add up vs count up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: add up or count up?
In everyday conversation, add up is more common than count up. This is because add up is used in a wider variety of contexts, such as calculating expenses or adding up scores. Count up is less common and is mainly used in specific situations, such as counting money or tallying points in a game.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of add up and count up
Add up and count up are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions such as 'calculate' or 'tally' can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of add up and count up
The tone of add up and count up can differ based on context. Add up often carries a practical or analytical tone when related to calculating numbers, while count up typically has a playful or competitive tone, especially when referring to tallying points or keeping score.
