# add to sth

CEFR A2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/add-to-sth
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

To make something bigger in amount, number, or size. You can also use it when you put one thing with another thing or group.

For teachers: To increase the quantity, size, scope, or intensity of something. This phrasal verb is transitive and inseparable.

## Examples

- He adds sugar to his coffee every morning.
- The new wing will add to the museum's capacity, allowing for more exhibits.
- The unexpected witness testimony, far from clarifying the matter, only served to add to the layers of confusion surrounding the high-profile case.

## Pitfalls

- Not "This will add our problems." but "This will add to our problems." — The preposition 'to' is required to connect the verb 'add' with the thing being increased.

## Usage notes

- Often used with abstract nouns like 'confusion', 'value', or 'problems' to mean 'increase'.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'add up' (to calculate a total; to make sense) and 'add on' (to include an extra item or feature).

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.