What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
summing
Example
I spent hours summing up all the expenses for the project. [summing: verb]
Example
In summing up the article, the author highlights the main points. [summing: gerund or present participle]
adding
Example
I need help adding these numbers together. [adding: verb]
Example
She is adding her own ideas to the discussion. [adding: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adding is more commonly used than summing in everyday language. Adding is a basic mathematical operation that is used frequently in daily life, while summing is a more specialized term that is used primarily in academic or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between summing and adding?
Summing is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, while adding is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
