What are the definitions of “add up to”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “add up to”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb add up to is to have a certain result or come to a certain amount or figure. It is often used to describe the total or final outcome of a situation or the sum of different parts.
What are the different verb forms of “add up to”?
| Root Verb | add up to |
| Third Person Singular Present | adds up to |
| Present Participle | adding up to |
| Simple Past | added up to |
| Past Participle | added up to |
Example
The numbers add up to 100.
Example
The total cost adds up to $500.
Example
The expenses are adding up to a significant amount.
Example
The bills added up to more than we expected.
Example
The final amount added up to a large sum.
What kind of phrasal verb is “add up to”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“add up to” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The numbers add up to 100.
Example
The total cost adds up to $500.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“add up to” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The numbers add up to 100.
Example
The total cost adds up to $500.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “add up to”?
Add up to success
Result in a successful outcome.
Example
Hard work and determination add up to success in the long run.
Good things to know
Does “add up to” have an informal or formal tone?
Add up to is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
