to top it all off
Meaning(s)
1. to add something unusually good or bad to a situation that is already difficult.
Popularity
Medium
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
and to top it all off, it started to rain while I was locked out
Analysis
'To top it all off' is a phrase that adds emphasis to storytelling or recounting of events, where something bad or unusual has occurred in addition to a number of other things which have already been part of a difficult or trying experience. This phrase usually has a negative connotation, as it is mainly used to describe unpleasant or sometimes humorous events. It is related to the phrase 'the icing on the cake' and can be used in a number of contexts.
Social Examples (Advance)
- He brought me on a beautiful date - we went for dinner in one of the best restaurants and, to top it all off, he even bought me flowers!
- This week has been a disaster - my car got a puncture, my boss is furious with me, I'm not feeling well and, to top it all off, my washing machine has broken down!
Professional Examples (Advance)
- This year we have had a lot of success. We have recruited three fantastic new employees, increased growth by over 12% and, to top it all off, today John just completed an enormous sale.