The phrasal verb "count up" is predominantly used in informal contexts and is typically less common in formal speech. It refers to the process of tallying or listing numbers sequentially, often used when summing up figures or items to reach a total. For instance, one might say, "I need to count up the total number of guests attending the party." This usage is often seen in casual conversations or informal written communication, such as emails or notes. It can also be used when asking someone to check calculations or verify quantities, especially when precision is needed in everyday contexts like budgeting or inventory management. "Count up" can sometimes be interchangeable with "add up," although "add up" is more widely used and understood. The form retains a clear and direct meaning, maintaining focus on the act of counting as a sequential and thorough process.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To add numbers or items together in order to find a total.
Please count up all the receipts to see how much we spent on supplies.
She counted up her mistakes from the test to understand where she went wrong.
2. To accumulate or increase in number.
The expenses started to count up quickly during the holiday season.
The number of books she's read this year is beginning to count up.