What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abridgement
Example
The abridgement of the novel was only 100 pages long. [abridgement: noun]
Example
I read an abridgement of the history book for my class. [abridgement: noun]
summary
Example
Can you give me a summary of the article you read? [summary: noun]
Example
She summarized the key points of the presentation in her notes. [summarized: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Summary is more commonly used than abridgement in everyday language. Summary is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while abridgement is less common and may be more associated with academic works or older texts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abridgement and summary?
Both abridgement and summary can be used in formal and informal contexts, but abridgement may be more associated with academic or legal writing.
