ENGLISH
REFERENCE

add up

idiom
Meaning

To make sense; to be reasonable or consistent.


Examples
SIMPLE

His story does not add up.

CONTEXTUAL

I checked the numbers three times, but the total still does not add up.

COMPLEX

The detective examined the conflicting witness statements, realizing that the timeline provided by the suspect simply did not add up.

Anchors to
Related idioms3entries
  1. 01

    add fuel to the fire

    To worsen a conflict between people; to inflame an already tense situation.

  2. 02

    add insult to injury

    To further a loss with mockery or indignity; to worsen an already unfavorable situation.

  3. 03

    add oil

    Synonym of let's go: a cheer of encouragement, support, etc.

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