add up crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the crossword clue 'add up', you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "add up crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SUM: To find the total amount, often used in a mathematical context.
5 Letters
TOTAL: To combine amounts to get a sum or whole.
TALLY: To count or record, often used for scores or votes.
6 Letters
AMOUNT: To reach a specified total or sum.
7 Letters
COMPUTE: To calculate or reckon a figure or amount.
More About "add up crossword clue"
The phrase "add up" is a common and versatile expression that frequently appears in crosswords. Its primary meaning relates to arithmetic, signifying the act of combining numbers or quantities to find a total. This direct interpretation leads to answers like SUM, TOTAL, or COMPUTE.
However, "add up" can also be used figuratively to mean that something makes sense or is logically consistent. For instance, if a story "doesn't add up," it implies inconsistencies. While less common for direct answers in simple puzzles, more complex crosswords might play on this ambiguity. Recognizing the context and the required letter count is crucial for determining which meaning is intended.
When you encounter this clue, always consider both its literal mathematical sense and its figurative meaning of coherence. The other crossing words and the number of available letters will usually guide you to the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: For multi-faceted clues like "add up", think beyond the most obvious definition. Is there a common idiom or secondary meaning that fits?
- Check letter count diligently: Always verify that your proposed answer's length exactly matches the number of spaces in the grid. This is your primary filter for potential solutions.
- Look at intersecting words: The letters you already have from crossing words are invaluable. They can confirm or rule out a potential answer for "add up" very quickly.
- Think of synonyms: Brainstorm as many synonyms as possible for "add up" – not just direct ones, but also words that describe the *result* or *process* of adding.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'add up' mean in a crossword?
'Add up' typically means to calculate a total, sum, or combine figures. It can also imply that something makes sense or is logically consistent within a context.
How do I know the correct length for an 'add up' answer?
The correct answer length is determined by the number of empty squares provided in your crossword grid. Always cross-reference the number of letters in potential answers with the available spaces to ensure a fit.
Are there common synonyms for 'add up' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms found in crosswords for 'add up' include 'SUM', 'TOTAL', 'TALLY', 'AMOUNT', and 'COMPUTE'. The precise answer often depends on the specific nuance of the clue and the surrounding letters you already have.