Translation guide
How to express the idea of adding numbers or amounts together, or of something making sense or being consistent, in Japanese.
To find the sum of numbers or amounts.
To indicate that a story, explanation, or situation is logical or consistent.
Literally 'the seams match', meaning that a story or explanation is consistent and makes sense.
To describe small amounts gradually becoming a large total.
Do not translate 'adding up' literally as 足し上げる (tashiageru) or similar. Use the phrases above depending on context.
If you add 2 and 3, you get 5.
Means 'to total up' or 'to sum up'. Slightly more formal, often used when calculating expenses or scores.
Please add up the expenses.
Literary or formal term for 'to add'. Often used in written instructions or mathematical contexts.
Adding 3 to 5 makes 8.
His story doesn't add up.
Means 'to be logical' or 'to make sense'. Used for arguments or reasoning.
That explanation adds up.
Means 'to be reasonable' or 'to stand to reason'. More formal and less common in daily speech.
His proposal adds up.
Emphasizes the gradual accumulation of things, often used for expenses, dust, or feelings.
Even small expenses add up to a large amount over time.
Means 'to mount up' or 'to increase (in volume/amount)'. Often used for bills or costs.
The transportation costs added up.