Chalk up to

Definition 1 of 2

Pro Tip 1/3

Cause Identification

Use 'chalk up to' when pointing out the perceived cause of an event or situation.

Illustration for Cause Identification

After seeing the poor results, he chalked it up to lack of preparation.

Pro Tip 2/3

Subjective Interpretation

Keep in mind that 'chalk up to' often reflects a personal interpretation or opinion.

Illustration for Subjective Interpretation

I chalked up his rudeness to stress, but it turned out he wasn't in a bad mood.

Pro Tip 3/3

Mild Dismissal

'Chalk up to' can imply a mild dismissal or acceptance of something as unchangeable.

Illustration for Mild Dismissal

He chalked up the whole ordeal to fate and stopped worrying.

Visual representation of the word "Chalk up to"

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