ENGLISH
REFERENCE

count towards

phrasal verb.
Definition

phrasal verb. to be included as part of a total or to help you reach a goal.

phrasal verb. to be considered as a valid contribution toward a required total or a specific achievement; often used in academic or administrative contexts.


SIMPLE

This test will count towards your final grade.

CONTEXTUAL

The hours you spent volunteering last summer will count towards your community service requirement.

COMPLEX

While the preliminary rounds do not determine the winner, the points earned count towards the final seasonal ranking.

  • apply to
  • contribute to
  • be part of
Particles
towards
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
count + towards + object
Usage

usually followed by a noun representing a goal, total, or requirement.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'count on' (rely on) to show how different particles change the base verb's meaning entirely.

Pitfall

The course counts to my degree.The course counts towards my degree.the preposition 'towards' (or 'toward') is necessary to show the direction of the contribution.

Last updated April 24, 2026