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.
The most common verb for adding numbers. Used in everyday math and casual contexts.
2と3を足すと5になる。
If you add 2 and 3, you get 5.
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.
彼の話はつじつまが合わない。
His story doesn't add up.
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.
Means 'to total up' or 'to sum up'. Slightly more formal, often used when calculating expenses or scores.
経費を合計してください。
Please add up the expenses.
Literary or formal term for 'to add'. Often used in written instructions or mathematical contexts.
5に3を加えると8になる。
Adding 3 to 5 makes 8.
Means 'to be logical' or 'to make sense'. Used for arguments or reasoning.
その説明は筋が通っている。
That explanation adds up.
Means 'to be reasonable' or 'to stand to reason'. More formal and less common in daily speech.
彼の提案は理にかなっている。
His proposal adds up.
Emphasizes the gradual accumulation of things, often used for expenses, dust, or feelings.
小さな出費も積もり積もれば大きな額になる。
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.
交通費がかさんでしまった。
The transportation costs added up.