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"Add" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "sumar", and "add up" is a transitive verb phrase which is also often translated as "sumar". Learn more about the difference between "add" and "add up" below.
add(
ahd
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
2. (to combine)
4. (to confer)
a. dar
Her articles add a light-hearted touch to the magazine.Sus artículos le dan un toque de humor a la revista.
An intransitive verb is one that does not require a direct object (e.g., The man sneezed.).
add up(
ahd
uhp
)A transitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and requires a direct object (e.g., take out the trash.).
a. sumar
When I added up our monthly expenditure, I was shocked at how much we were spending.Cuando sumé nuestros gastos mensuales, me escandalizó la cantidad que gastábamos.
b. hacer
Excuse me; I think you've made a mistake adding up my bill.Disculpe; creo que ha hecho un error al hacerme la cuenta.
An intransitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and does not require a direct object (e.g., Everybody please stand up.).
a. sumar
Gemma is still learning to add up and take away at school.Gemma todavía está aprendiendo a sumar y restar en la escuela.
3. (to tally)
a. cuadrar
The figures don't add up. There must be a mistake somewhere.Las cifras no cuadran. Debe de haber un error en alguna parte.
a. sumarse
You need to watch these small expenses. They all add up.Tienes que vigilar estos gastos pequeños. Van sumándose.
5. (figurative) (to make sense)
A phrase used as a figure of speech or a word that is symbolic in meaning; metaphorical (e.g., carrot, bean).
a. cuadrar
Tony was suspicious of Robert as his story just didn't add up.Tony desconfiaba de Robert ya que su historia no cuadraba.
