Differences between add up and top up
Add up means to calculate the total of something, while top up means to add more of something to make it full or complete.
Meanings and Definitions: add up vs top 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.
Top up
- 1Refill something that isn't empty yet.
Shall I TOP UP your drink while I'm pouring myself one?
Usage Examples: add up, top 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.
top up
Example
Can you top up my coffee, please?
Example
She tops up her phone credit every month.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Add up
total up
To calculate the sum of a set of numbers or values.
Example
She had to total up all the receipts to see how much money she spent on groceries this month.
To count or record the number of something.
Example
He had to tally the votes to determine the winner of the election.
reckon up
To calculate or estimate the total amount of something.
Example
He had to reckon up how much he owed his friend for borrowing his car for the weekend.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Top up
fill up
To add enough of something to make it full or complete.
Example
He had to fill up his gas tank before going on a long road trip.
To add more of something to restore it to its original level or amount.
Example
She had to replenish her stock of office supplies before starting a new project.
To add more of a liquid substance to a container that is not empty.
Example
He had to refill his water bottle after finishing his workout at the gym.
Differences in add up vs top up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: add up or top up?
Both add up and top up are commonly used in daily conversation, but add up is used more frequently. This is because calculating totals is a common task in everyday life, such as adding up expenses or scores. Top up is also used regularly, but in more specific situations, such as topping up a phone plan or adding more fuel to a car.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of add up and top up
Add up and top 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 can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of add up and top up
The tone of add up and top up can differ based on context. Add up often carries a neutral or factual tone when related to calculations or numbers, while top up typically has a practical and positive tone, especially when referring to adding more of something to complete a task or goal.
