on top of

On the upper surface or highest part of something.

• Your hat is on top of the box.
• Snow covered the house on top of the hill.
• Why is that book on top of my bag?

How to use it: on top of someone/something (The cat slept on top of the cupboard.)

Similar words: atop

Opposites: under

Common phrases: on top of something, on top of someone

As an extra thing, often making a situation more difficult.

• I have homework on top of my chores.
• She paid a fee on top of the ticket price.
• On top of that, our car broke down.

How to use it: on top of something (We pay for electricity on top of the rent.)

Similar words: in addition to, besides

Common phrases: on top of something, on top of that

Knowing what is happening with something and dealing with it successfully.

• I am on top of my work.
• She stayed on top of things during the move.
• Are you on top of the latest changes?

How to use it: be on top of something (I am finally on top of my paperwork.); stay on top of something (Check your calendar to stay on top of deadlines.)

Similar words: in control of, up to date with

Common phrases: on top of something, on top of work

Extremely close to someone or something, in space or time.

• Everyone was living on top of everyone else.
• The houses are practically on top of one another.
• Our exams fall right on top of the festival.

How to use it: on top of someone/something (The two deadlines fall almost on top of each other.)

Similar words: very close to

Opposites: far from

Common phrases: on top of someone, on top of something