# on top of

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/on-top-of
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. physically above

preposition · CEFR A2

resting on the highest part or surface of something.

For teachers: positioned atop or resting upon the upper surface of an object.

- He left his car keys on top of the refrigerator so he wouldn't lose them.
- The hikers finally reached the summit and stood on top of the mountain, looking down at the clouds below.

### 2. in addition to

preposition · CEFR B1

used to mention an extra thing, usually something bad, that happens as well as something else.

For teachers: denoting an additional circumstance or event, frequently one that compounds an existing difficulty or situation.

- On top of the heavy rain, our car broke down on the way home.
- The company faced a massive fine on top of the negative publicity generated by the recent product recall.

### 3. in control of

preposition · CEFR B2 · Informal

to be fully informed about something and managing it well.

For teachers: maintaining awareness, control, or mastery over a task, situation, or set of information.

- She stays on top of her emails by checking her inbox every hour.
- The project manager struggled to stay on top of the changing regulations, which threatened to delay the construction schedule.

## Examples

- On top of the rain, our car broke down.
- On top of her busy work schedule, she has to care for her elderly parents every evening.
- The company faced a massive fine on top of the reputational damage caused by the recent data breach.

## Usage notes

- Teaching tip: 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'.

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