Meaning & Definition of word "Summarize"

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    Summarize

    /ˈsʌməraɪz/

    verb:

    • 1. to give a brief statement of the main points of (something).
      • Example: Please summarize the main findings of your research in a few sentences.
    • 2. to make a summary of.
      • Example: The teacher asked the students to summarize the chapter after reading it.
    • 3. to condense or reduce to a shorter form while retaining the essential elements.
      • Example: He summarized the lengthy report to make it easier for the board to digest.
    • 4. to encapsulate a discussion or argument.
      • Example: At the end of the meeting, she summarized the key points discussed.

    Etymology

    Late Middle English 'summarisen', from Old French 'sommaer' (to sum up), from Latin 'summarius' (of a summary).

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    summarize in a nutshell:

    To express something in a very brief and simple way.

    summarize the situation:

    To give an overview of the current state of affairs.

    Related Words

    summary:

    A brief statement of the main points of something.

    sum:

    The total amount resulting from the addition of two or more numbers or amounts.

    abstract:

    A brief summary of the contents of a book, article, or speech.

    Slang Meanings of summarize

    Meaning: To give a quick, simplified version of something, often with little detail.

    Example Sentence: Can you summarize that email for me? I don't have time to read the whole thing.

    Meaning: To quickly explain the key idea or conclusion of something.

    Example Sentence: The teacher summarized the lesson in just a few words: 'Always check your work!'