Idiom
it doesn't add up
When something doesn't add up, it means it seems illogical, inconsistent, or doesn't make sense.
Meanings
Used to say that a situation, explanation, or set of facts seems illogical, inconsistent, or not entirely truthful.
Definition
This idiom is used when details or facts don't seem to fit together logically, making a situation confusing or suspicious. It suggests that there's a discrepancy or an unexplained element that prevents one from believing a story or understanding a situation fully. You might say "it doesn't add up" when you suspect something is wrong or being concealed.
Examples
- The numbers in the budget report just don't add up; I think there's a mistake somewhere.
- His alibi for last night doesn't add up because two different witnesses saw him in separate places.
- She said she was sick, but then I saw her jogging in the park – something about her story just didn't add up.
- The detective felt that the suspect's testimony didn't add up, prompting further investigation.
- If you factor in the travel time, their explanation for being late really doesn't add up.
Common mistake
A common mistake is to use "it doesn't sum up" instead of "it doesn't add up" when referring to something being illogical or inconsistent.
More idioms
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- close but no cigar Used to say someone almost succeeded but did not quite achieve the goal.
- down to the wire Used to say something is decided or finished only at the last possible moment.
- lost the plot To become confused or behave in a way that no longer makes sense.
- ducks in a row To have everything organized and ready for action.