phrase
on top of that
on TOP uhv that
On top of that (phrase) means used to add a further fact to what has already been said, usually one that makes the situation more extreme. It most often introduces an additional problem or an additional cost. Example: “The flight was delayed six hours, and on top of that they lost my bag.”
phrase
1
Used to add a further fact to what has already been said, usually one that makes the situation more extreme. It most often introduces an additional problem or an additional cost.
"The flight was delayed six hours, and on top of that they lost my bag."
"Rent is £900, and on top of that you pay bills."
How to use on top of that
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAnd there's more, as well as everything already mentioned.
When to use it
Informal to neutral. Usually sits at the start of a clause with a comma after it.
Memory tip
Do not confuse it with 'on top of' meaning in control of something: she is on top of her workload.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
and on top of that
on top of it all
on top of everything else
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The flight was delayed six hours, and _____ they lost my bag.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between on top of that and on top of it all?
They add information in the same way, but on top of it all sums up a whole pile of previous complaints and is nearly always negative. On top of that adds a single further item and can be neutral or even positive.
Is on top of that formal enough for essays?
It is conversational. In formal writing prefer in addition, moreover or furthermore; keep on top of that for speech, emails and informal prose.
What is the meaning of on top of that?
"on top of that" (phrase) means used to add a further fact to what has already been said, usually one that makes the situation more extreme. It most often introduces an additional problem or an additional cost.
What is another word for on top of that?
Other words for "on top of that" include in addition, what is more, besides, to make matters worse, furthermore.
