# sum sth up

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sum-sth-up
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to give a short description that includes the main points of something.

For teachers: to present a concise summary of the principal aspects or arguments of a discourse or situation.

## Examples

- He sums up the main points at the end of every meeting.
- The final chapter of the book sums up the author's research on climate change perfectly.
- The defense attorney's closing statement effectively summed up the inconsistencies in the witness's testimony, leaving the jury with significant doubt.

## Pitfalls

- Not "To sum up of the story..." but "To sum up the story..." — the verb is transitive and takes a direct object without the preposition 'of'.

## Usage notes

- often used at the end of a speech, essay, or meeting to review key information.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'summarize' (more formal) and 'wrap up' (more focused on finishing the event than the content); 'sum up' is common in both academic and business contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.