English Reference

Phrasal verb

stack up

Definition

phrasal verb. to compare two or more things to see how they measure against each other; it can also mean that something makes sense or seems true.

phrasal verb. to compare or measure against a standard or competitor; in a secondary sense, to be logically consistent or plausible. Often used in the negative to indicate that an explanation lacks credibility.

Examples

“How does their new car stack up against ours?”

“The detective realized the suspect's story didn't stack up when he checked the security footage.”

“While the startup's initial growth was impressive, analysts questioned whether its long-term revenue model would stack up against established industry giants.”

Examples

simple

“How does their new car stack up against ours?”

contextual

“The detective realized the suspect's story didn't stack up when he checked the security footage.”

complex

“While the startup's initial growth was impressive, analysts questioned whether its long-term revenue model would stack up against established industry giants.”

Usage

often used with 'against' for comparisons or in the negative ('doesn't stack up') for logic.

Teaching tip

help students distinguish between the literal sense of piling objects and the figurative sense of logical consistency or comparative value.

Phrasal verb

Particles

up

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

stack + up (+ against + object)

Synonyms

measure upcomparemake sensehold water

Antonyms

fall shortcontradict

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference