Translation guide
The English phrase "add to" is used to indicate increasing an amount, contributing to a quality, or performing mathematical addition. In Japanese, the expression depends on the context: whether you are adding something to a physical collection, increasing an abstract quality, or performing arithmetic.
Expressing the action of putting something into a group, pile, or total so that the amount becomes larger.
Transitive verb meaning 'to add' something to a collection, mixture, or total. Often used when physically adding an item or ingredient.
Please add sugar.
I added a name to the list.
Suru-verb meaning 'to add' in the sense of appending or supplementing. Common in digital contexts (adding files, items to cart) or formal additions.
I added the item to the cart.
Often used for adding numbers or small amounts, especially in casual contexts. Can also mean to supplement something that is lacking.
There's not enough water, so please add a little more.
If you add 3 to 5, you get 8.
Expressing that something enhances or increases an abstract quality, atmosphere, or emotion.
Idiomatic phrase meaning 'to spur on' or 'to add momentum to'. Used when something intensifies a situation or feeling.
The news added to the anxiety.
Intransitive/transitive verb meaning 'to increase'. Can be used when something adds to a quality or feeling.
Pattern meaning 'to make something even more...'. Used in formal or written contexts.
Adding numbers together in a mathematical sense.
加える (kuwaeru) is the most general 'add' for physical or abstract additions. 追加する (tsuika suru) implies appending or supplementing, often in formal or digital contexts. 足す (tasu) is casual and often used for adding small amounts or numbers.
When 'add to' means 'contribute to a feeling', direct translations like 加える often sound unnatural. Use idiomatic phrases like 拍車をかける or verbs like 増す instead.
その言葉が彼の悲しみを増した。
Those words added to his sadness.
The event added to his determination.