Idiom idiom
add up
Meaning
To make sense; to be reasonable or consistent.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Examples
“His story does not add up.”
“I checked the numbers three times, but the total still does not add up.”
“The detective examined the conflicting witness statements, realizing that the timeline provided by the suspect simply did not add up.”
Anchors to
- 01
add fuel to the fire
To worsen a conflict between people; to inflame an already tense situation.
- 02
add insult to injury
To further a loss with mockery or indignity; to worsen an already unfavorable situation.
- 03
add oil
Synonym of let's go: a cheer of encouragement, support, etc.
- 04
added value
The positive value difference produced by someone who adds value.
Last updated August 10, 2026