Translation guide
The English verb 'add' covers several distinct actions in Japanese. The most common equivalents are 加える (kuwaeru) for adding something to an existing group or mixture, and 足す (tasu) for mathematical addition or supplementing a quantity. Other verbs like 追加する (tsuika suru) are used for appending items to a list or order. The choice depends on what is being added and the context.
To put something into an existing set, mixture, or collection so that it becomes part of it.
General verb for adding something to a group, mixture, or collection. Often used in cooking, team formation, and abstract contexts.
Please add a little sugar.
Literally 'put in', used casually for adding ingredients or items into a container or mixture. Very common in everyday speech.
To perform addition in mathematics, or to increase a quantity by adding more.
The standard verb for mathematical addition. Also used for adding more of something to reach a desired amount.
To include an additional item in a written list, digital record, or order.
To add something extra to an existing list, order, or set. Common in menus, shopping, and software.
To incorporate a new capability, feature, or component into a system or product.
Used for adding features to software, apps, or services.
To say something extra in a conversation or written text.
加える (kuwaeru) is for adding to a mixture or group. 足す (tasu) is for mathematical addition or supplementing a quantity. 追加する (tsuika suru) is for appending to a list or order. Using the wrong one can sound unnatural.
Let's add him to the team.
Please add milk to the coffee.
To add something extra, often a comment or supplementary item. Implies attaching or appending.
May I add one more thing?
5に3を足すと8になります。
If you add 3 to 5, you get 8.
There's not enough salt, so please add a little more.
Loanword from English 'plus', used in casual math or when adding a positive element.
Please add 10 to this number.
I added dessert to the order.
Please add a name to the list.
To add something to fill a gap or supplement. Often used for adding words or items to a written text.
I added an explanation to the text.
We added a new feature to the app.
Can be used for adding elements to a system or design, slightly more formal.
We added security features to the system.
To add a supplementary comment or remark.
He added, 'However...'
To add something verbally that was left unsaid.
I want to add one more thing.
add water (correct / somewhat acceptable / incorrect)
追加する is not used for adding ingredients during cooking. Use 加える or 入れる instead.
add salt (incorrect → correct)