Definition

Verb: - To accumulate or record a total amount, typically distance, time, or a score, often progressively or over a period. It commonly refers to the action of a mechanical device (like an odometer or timer) registering this total.

Usage and Examples

The verb "clock up" is used to describe the action of accumulating a measurable total. It is often followed by a direct object specifying the amount (e.g., miles, hours, points).

• The delivery driver clocked up over 200 miles today.
• The veteran pilot has clocked up more than 10,000 flying hours in his career.
• The team managed to clock up a convincing victory with three goals in the first half.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

While the core meaning involves recording a total, "clock up" often carries a connotation of steady accumulation, sometimes to a notable or impressive degree. It can be used in both positive and neutral contexts.

• Connotation of Achievement: Often implies reaching a significant milestone through sustained effort.
  • She has clocked up 25 years of service with the company.
• Neutral Recording: Can simply state a factual total without positive or negative judgment.
  • The car has clocked up 150,000 kilometers.

Variants and Related Words

• Clock (verb): To record the time or speed of something.
  • He clocked the fastest lap in the race.
• Log (verb): To make a formal record of details, especially in a logbook. This is a close synonym but is more systematic.
  • Sailors must log their position daily.

Synonyms

• Accumulate: To gather or collect an increasing number or quantity over time.
• Notch up: An informal synonym, often used for scores or successes.
• Run up: To allow a total to accumulate, often used for debts or scores.
• Chalk up: To attribute or score, often used for victories or achievements.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Clock in/on: To record the time of one's arrival at work.
  • Employees must clock in by 9 a.m.
• Clock out/off: To record the time of one's departure from work.
  • She clocked off at 5:30 p.m.

Related Idioms

• Against the clock: Rushing to finish something before a deadline.
  • We're working against the clock to complete the project.
• Turn the clock back: To return to a situation or a style from the past.
  • We can't turn the clock back on technological progress.

Verb

1. record a distance travelled; on planes and cars