on top of
- 01 A2 Elementary
resting on the highest part or surface of something.
positioned atop or resting upon the upper surface of an object.
Simple“He left his car keys on top of the refrigerator so he wouldn't lose them.”
In context“The hikers finally reached the summit and stood on top of the mountain, looking down at the clouds below.”
Antonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
used to mention an extra thing, usually something bad, that happens as well as something else.
denoting an additional circumstance or event, frequently one that compounds an existing difficulty or situation.
Simple“On top of the heavy rain, our car broke down on the way home.”
In context“The company faced a massive fine on top of the negative publicity generated by the recent product recall.”
Synonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
to be fully informed about something and managing it well.
maintaining awareness, control, or mastery over a task, situation, or set of information.
Simple“She stays on top of her emails by checking her inbox every hour.”
In context“The project manager struggled to stay on top of the changing regulations, which threatened to delay the construction schedule.”
SynonymsAntonyms
distinguish between the literal spatial meaning (position) and the figurative meaning (addition or control); the 'control' sense is often used with the verb 'stay' or 'be'.