summary
As an adjective, summary describes something that is done immediately and without the usual formalities or attention to detail. It often refers to legal or official actions performed quickly or in a concise, abbreviated manner.
Examples
3 of 5The teacher provided a summary explanation of the complex theorem to save time.
The teacher provided a brief and concise explanation of the complex theorem to save time.
The court issued a summary judgment because there were no triable issues of fact.
The court issued an immediate legal decision because there were no triable issues of fact.
He gave me a summary brush-off when I tried to explain my side of the story.
He gave me a quick and dismissive rejection when I tried to explain my side of the story.
Antonyms
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'Sum.' A sum is the quick total of many numbers without looking at each one individually. A 'summary' action is a quick result without looking at all the details.
Quick Quiz
The captain ordered the _____ execution of the spies without waiting for a trial.
Correct!
The correct answer is: summary
Examples
The teacher provided a summary explanation of the complex theorem to save time.
everydayThe teacher provided a brief and concise explanation of the complex theorem to save time.
The court issued a summary judgment because there were no triable issues of fact.
formalThe court issued an immediate legal decision because there were no triable issues of fact.
He gave me a summary brush-off when I tried to explain my side of the story.
informalHe gave me a quick and dismissive rejection when I tried to explain my side of the story.
The researcher included a summary analysis of the data in the introductory chapter.
academicThe researcher included a brief and condensed analysis of the data in the introductory chapter.
The board's summary dismissal of the CEO shocked the entire industry.
businessThe board's immediate firing of the CEO without notice shocked the entire industry.
Antonyms
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
in summary
to conclude or sum up
summary fashion
doing something in a quick, direct way
summary proceedings
legal actions handled quickly
Often Confused With
Summery refers to characteristics of the season of summer, while summary refers to a brief account or a quick action.
Usage Notes
When using summary as an adjective, it almost always precedes a noun. It carries a connotation of speed and sometimes a lack of thoroughness, especially in legal or professional settings.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use the word 'summery' when they intend to write 'summary.' Additionally, they may forget that 'summary' can act as an adjective and try to use 'summarized' in contexts like 'summary judgment.'
Memory Tip
Think of a 'Sum.' A sum is the quick total of many numbers without looking at each one individually. A 'summary' action is a quick result without looking at all the details.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'summarium', meaning an epitome or abstract, which comes from 'summa' (sum/total).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Western legal systems, a 'summary judgment' is a common procedural device used to avoid unnecessary trials when the facts are not in dispute.
Quick Quiz
The captain ordered the _____ execution of the spies without waiting for a trial.
Correct!
The correct answer is: summary
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