Translation guide
How to summarize or conclude a point in Japanese, from casual conversation to formal writing.
To give a brief statement of the main points, often at the end of a discussion or explanation.
Common in spoken and written Japanese. Means 'in short' or 'to sum up'. Used to wrap up a point concisely.
要するに、計画は失敗だった。
To sum up, the plan was a failure.
Literally 'if I summarize'. Very natural in both speech and writing when you are about to give a summary.
まとめると、三つの問題があります。
To sum up, there are three problems.
Means 'in other words' or 'that is to say'. Often used to rephrase or conclude, slightly more casual than 要するに.
Formal expression meaning 'in conclusion'. Suitable for presentations, essays, or formal speeches.
結論として、この政策は有効です。
To sum up, this policy is effective.
To calculate the total of numbers or amounts.
Transitive verb meaning 'to total' or 'to sum up' numbers. Used in everyday contexts.
経費を合計してください。
Please sum up the expenses.
要するに is used to give a concise conclusion, often implying 'the point is'. まとめると is more neutral and simply introduces a summary. In formal writing, 要するに can sound slightly abrupt; まとめると or 結論として are safer.
要するに、彼は来ない。
To sum up, he's not coming.
まとめると、三つの理由が挙げられる。
To sum up, three reasons can be given.
つまり、もっと時間が必要だということです。
To sum up, it means we need more time.
Basic verb for 'to add'. Often used in math or casual talk about adding numbers.
これらの数字を足すと、合計は100になります。
If you sum up these numbers, the total is 100.