verb to calculate the total of numbers or amounts
adverb used to describe the manner in which something is added up
In mathematics, 'add up' is used to refer to the process of finding the total sum of numbers or quantities.
In finance, 'add up' is used to describe the calculation of total expenses, profits, or losses.
In statistics, 'add up' is used to calculate the total value of data points or variables in a dataset.
In accounting, 'add up' is used to indicate the total of debits and credits in a financial statement.
In a professional context, 'add up' can be used by a writer to describe the process of making sure all the information or numbers in a piece of writing are correct and consistent. For example, a writer may say 'I need to double-check these figures to make sure they add up.'
Psychologists may use 'add up' to refer to the process of analyzing and making sense of a client's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to form a coherent understanding of their mental state. For example, a psychologist may say 'Her story doesn't quite add up, there seems to be something missing.'
Accountants commonly use 'add up' to refer to the process of totaling numbers or calculating sums to ensure accuracy in financial statements. For example, an accountant may say 'I need to add up all the expenses to see if they match the budget.'
Engineers may use 'add up' to describe the process of checking calculations or measurements to ensure that a design or project is accurate and feasible. For example, an engineer may say 'These dimensions don't add up, we need to recheck our calculations.'
Architects could use 'add up' to refer to the process of ensuring that all the components of a building design fit together cohesively and meet the requirements of the project. For example, an architect may say 'The floor plans need to add up with the structural drawings.'