Crossword Genius

To put it briefly, make the total higher (3,2)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

sum up

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'to put it briefly make' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this defines the answer.

'total higher' is the wordplay.
'total' becomes 'sum' (synonyms).
'higher' becomes 'up'.
'sum'+'up'='SUM UP'

'the' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for sum up that I've seen before include "Recapitulate (in court)" , "Make final precis of evidence" , "Money more than before" , "(Of a judge) review the evidence" , "Recapitulate (as for jury)" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app