Chalk up Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To attribute a result to a particular cause or to record an achievement, success, or failure. Often used to explain why something happened.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and often used for both positive and negative outcomes. Common with achievements ('chalk up a win'), experiences ('chalk it up to experience'), and explanations for failure or luck. Frequently followed by 'to'. Not related to physical 'chalk.'
Example Sentences
We can chalk up our loss to bad luck.
basic
She chalked up another win yesterday.
basic
Let’s chalk up this mistake to inexperience.
basic
He’s just starting out, so you can chalk up his mistakes to learning.
natural
If things go wrong, just chalk it up to experience and move on.
natural
She’s managed to chalk up several promotions in just a few years.
natural