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

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 notes

In 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

on top of it all besides that other than that →

Common pairings

and on top of that on top of it all on top of everything else

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The flight was delayed six hours, and _____ they lost my bag.

Synonyms

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in addition what is more besides to make matters worse furthermore

Related Words

and also too else besides moreover furthermore additionally

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.

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