Translation guide
How to express 'in short' in Japanese, used to summarize or conclude a statement concisely.
To briefly summarize a longer explanation or to state the main point concisely.
The most common and versatile phrase meaning 'in short' or 'in summary'. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
要するに、彼は来ないということだ。
In short, it means he's not coming.
要するに、計画は失敗だった。
In short, the plan was a failure.
Very common in conversation. Often used to rephrase or clarify, meaning 'that is to say' or 'in short'.
Literally 'to say by pinching/summarizing', meaning 'to put it briefly'. Slightly more formal.
かいつまんで言うと、問題は予算不足です。
In short, the problem is a lack of budget.
Means 'to put it bluntly/succinctly'. Used in formal or written contexts.
端的に言えば、この案は非現実的だ。
In short, this proposal is unrealistic.
Both mean 'in short', but つまり is often used to rephrase or clarify a previous statement, while 要するに is more directly 'to summarize'. In many cases they are interchangeable.
彼は遅刻した。つまり、寝坊したんだ。
He was late. In short, he overslept.
要するに、彼は怠け者だ。
In short, he's lazy.
つまり、君は反対なんだね。
In short, you're against it, right?
つまり、もっとお金が必要だ。
In short, we need more money.
Literally 'the quick story is', used to cut to the chase. Slightly more casual.
早い話が、クビになったんだ。
In short, I got fired.