Translation guide
The English verb "summarize" means to give a brief statement of the main points. In Japanese, the most natural equivalents depend on whether you are condensing information orally or in writing, and the level of formality.
To express the main points of something in a short, clear way, in speech or writing.
The most direct and common translation for "summarize." Used for both written and spoken summaries. Slightly formal, but widely used in everyday contexts.
この記事を要約してください。
Please summarize this article.
He summarized the contents of the meeting.
Means "to put together" or "to organize." Often used when summarizing ideas, opinions, or information into a coherent whole. More casual than 要約する.
話し合ったことをまとめてください。
Please summarize what we discussed.
要点をまとめると、こうなります。
To summarize the main points, it's like this.
Literally "to put it simply." Used as a conversational phrase to introduce a summary or simplified explanation.
簡単に言うと、計画は中止です。
To summarize, the plan is canceled.
To produce a written summary, often for academic or professional purposes.
Also the standard term for written summaries. Used in academic instructions and formal writing.
論文の要約を書いてください。
Please write a summary of the paper.
A formal, literary term meaning "to summarize" or "to outline." Rare in everyday speech; used in academic or technical writing.
この章では研究結果を概括する。
This chapter summarizes the research findings.
To give a quick verbal summary in informal conversation.
Means "in short" or "the point is." Very common in spoken Japanese to introduce a summary or conclusion.
要するに、彼は来ないってこと？
So, to summarize, he's not coming?
Means "in other words" or "that is to say." Used to rephrase or summarize a preceding statement.
要約する is more formal and focuses on condensing content into a shorter form, often preserving the original structure. まとめる is broader, meaning to organize or bring together, and is used for summarizing discussions, ideas, or tasks. In casual contexts, まとめる is often more natural.
まとめる can also mean "to wrap up" or "to finish" a task, not just summarize information. Context clarifies the meaning.
その話を要約してくれますか？
Can you summarize the story?
要するに、イベントを延期することに決めました。
To summarize, we decided to postpone the event.
つまり、もっと時間が必要だということです。
In summary, we need more time.