Idioms

chalk it up

chalk it up

To link something that has happened to a particular reason or circumstance. Don't get too down on yourselves after this loss, boys. Let's just chalk it up to inexperience and move on. Sure, getting a B in Algebra is disappointing, but I'm just going to chalk it up to the fact that I'm usually terrible at math! The poor financial performance of the event is disappointing, but we're chalking it up to bad luck for now.
See also: chalk, up

chalk up

1. Literally, to write something in chalk, as on a chalkboard. A noun or pronoun can be used between "chalk" and "up." Once I finish chalking up tonight's homework assignment, we can discuss last night's reading. Who wants to come to the blackboard and chalk up the answer to this math problem? I've already chalked up the main points of this section, kids, so go ahead and copy that down.
2. To earn something. A noun or pronoun can be used between "chalk" and "up." After you chalk up enough frequent flier miles, you will be able to get plane tickets for free. I'll never be able to chalk up enough tickets to win that little portable TV from the arcade! You know, this isn't the kind of industry where you'll chalk up money easily. You really need to be smart with the little bit of money you do make.
3. To add something to a tally. A noun or pronoun can be used between "chalk" and "up." Hank just scored a basket, so chalk one up for him. Chalk up a few more states for the incumbent. Finally, after a six-game losing streak, you can chalk up a win for our team!
4. To attribute something (to something else). A noun or pronoun can be used between "chalk" and "up." They're a very young team, so we'll chalk this loss up to inexperience and nerves. The poor financial performance of the event is disappointing, but we're chalking it up to bad luck for now. Well, I'm pretty sure we can chalk the lack of attendance up to the snowstorm.
5. To blame one for something. A noun or pronoun can be used between "chalk" and "up." I had nothing to do with the prank, but I'm sure they'll chalk it up against me anyway. Are you really going to chalk it up against me that money is missing from your wallet? Wow. Why are you chalking up the break-in against me? I know I locked the door and set the alarm system when I left!
See also: chalk, up
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
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References in periodicals archive
The Oregonian has been running a weekly update called "Chalk it Up" on what teachers are doing and how it's helping their students.
Share your secrets!
You can chalk it up to the year-round sunshine, or the tendency here to accessorise to the hilt, but people in Dubai love their sunglasses.
Shop Talk
And if you want to play the game, you have to chalk it up and not berate yourself about it.
Ready, fire, aim: using the tools of improv comedy in every day life
Chalk it up to indecision, societal changes, or kismet, but more than likely it's because many didn't have a plan.
choosing the right path
He cannot explain, or rather, refuses to seriously consider the process by which he gets his directing jobs, preferring to chalk it up to the mysteries of the movie-making universe--which he is currently feeling at one with.
New Waterford girl: the rules according to (Allan) Moyle
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