The phrasal verb "rack up" is predominantly used in informal speech and is less common in formal writing. Generally, it conveys the meaning of accumulating or collecting something, often in large quantities or amounts. This phrasal verb is frequently used in contexts involving numbers or scores, such as in sports, games, finance, and statistics (e.g., "rack up points," "rack up sales"). It suggests a sense of achievement or progress, albeit sometimes with a negative connotation, such as accumulating debts or losses (e.g., "racked up a huge amount of debt"). The term originates from the concept of scoring or tallying up points on a rack, reinforcing its use in competitive or quantifiable scenarios.
B2
UpperIntermediate
1. To accumulate a large number or amount of something, such as points, losses, or debts.
She managed to rack up several victories during the tournament.
Over the years, he racked up considerable debt on his credit card.
The team has been racking up an impressive number of wins this season.
The company racked up sales during the holiday season at a record pace.
He racked up a huge phone bill after making several long-distance calls.