en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

Explaining "It doesn't add up"

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem 21/01/2025, 05:23
English.me team member

What does it mean?

It doesn't add up

The phrase "It doesn't add up" means that something is illogical or inconsistent; the facts or details do not make sense when considered together.

Tone

Informal and conversational, often expressing doubt or skepticism.

Origin

The phrase originates from mathematics, where numbers must align to logically fit a solution. When they don’t, the result is invalid, and this concept has been metaphorically applied to situations involving logic or reasoning.

Examples of usage

  • She said she was home all night, but her story doesn't add up.
  • The expenses you've listed don't add up to the total amount withdrawn.
  • Something about his explanation just doesn't add up.

Recommended posts in Phrases

Give him an inch and he will take a mile

Give him an inch and he will take a mile

This phrase means that if you give someone a small ... Learn more →

The enemy of my enemy is my friend

The enemy of my enemy is my friend

The phrase suggests that two parties can find common ground ... Learn more →

A fool and his money are soon parted

A fool and his money are soon parted

The phrase means that people who are not wise with ... Learn more →

At the end of my rope

At the end of my rope

The phrase "at the end of my rope" means that ... Learn more →