SpeakUp

Grammar fix

add on

include something extra

to include something extra, especially as an addition to what is already there.

phrasal verbB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • They decided to add on a dessert to their meal.daily life
  • If I could change something about my phone, I would add on a better camera because I love taking photos.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: add on [noun] (to [noun])

WrongThey added on it to the price.

RightThey added it on to the price.

With a pronoun, the object goes in the middle: 'add it on'.

Patternadd on [noun] (to [noun])

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff They will append an additional charge for delivery.

Natural They add a bit on for delivery.

'Add on' is the everyday verb for tacking on an extra; 'append an additional charge' is formal.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • add on + extra
    a chargeVATextrasa fee

Don't confuse it

'Add on' means to include something extra, while 'add up' means to calculate a total.

Try it in Daily Speak →