Translation guide
The English phrasal verb 'stack up' has several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether they mean physically piling things, comparing quality, accumulating, or making sense.
To put things on top of each other to form a neat pile or stack.
Transitive verb meaning to pile up or stack things neatly. Used for boxes, books, plates, etc.
彼は本を机の上に積み重ねた。
He stacked up the books on the desk.
Transitive verb meaning to pile up, load, or stack. More general than 積み重ねる, can also mean loading cargo.
ダンボールを倉庫に積んだ。
I stacked the cardboard boxes in the warehouse.
Transitive verb meaning to pile up or put one on top of another. Emphasizes layering rather than forming a tall stack.
皿を重ねて棚にしまった。
I stacked the plates and put them away on the shelf.
To measure up against something else; to be as good as or equal to.
Means 'to be comparable to' or 'to rival'. Used when something stacks up well against a standard.
この新製品は他社の製品に匹敵する。
This new product stacks up against competitors' products.
Literally 'there is no inferiority compared to'. A formal way to say something stacks up well.
彼の実力はプロと比べて遜色がない。
His ability stacks up well against the pros.
Means 'not inferior to' or 'holds its own against'. Common in everyday comparisons.
この店のラーメンは有名店に引けを取らない。
This shop's ramen stacks up against famous restaurants.
To gather or build up gradually, often referring to work, problems, or evidence.
Intransitive verb meaning to accumulate or pile up (of things like work, stress, dust). Often used for unwanted buildup.
仕事が溜まっている。
Work is stacking up.
Intransitive verb meaning to pile up, especially snow or dust, but also used figuratively for feelings or small amounts.
Intransitive verb meaning to overlap or pile up, often for events or tasks happening at the same time.
To be consistent or plausible; to add up logically.
Means 'to be logical' or 'to make sense'. Used when a story or explanation stacks up.
彼の説明は筋が通っている。
His explanation stacks up.
Means 'to be consistent' or 'to add up'. Often used when details of a story are coherent.
彼の証言は辻褄が合わない。
His testimony doesn't stack up.
When comparing quality, avoid literal translations like 積み上がる (tsumiagaru). Use the phrases provided instead.
この車は高級車に匹敵する。
This car stacks up against luxury cars.
Snow is stacking up.
予定が重なって大変だ。
My schedule is stacking up; it's tough.