What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
recapitulate
Example
The professor asked the students to recapitulate the main points of the lecture. [recapitulate: verb]
Example
The report provided a detailed recapitulation of the events leading up to the crisis. [recapitulation: noun]
summarize
Example
Can you summarize the main points of the article for me? [summarize: verb]
Example
The executive summary provided a succinct summary of the report's findings. [summary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Summarize is more commonly used than recapitulate in everyday language. Summarize is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while recapitulate is more specific and formal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between recapitulate and summarize?
Recapitulate is typically associated with a formal and academic tone, while summarize can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
