What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
summarize
Example
Can you summarize the main points of the article for me? [summarize: verb]
Example
The teacher asked us to summarize the chapter in our own words. [summarize: verb]
Example
The summary of the report was only two pages long. [summary: noun]
condense
Example
The author condensed the book into a shorter version for young readers. [condensed: verb]
Example
The condensed version of the report was only one page long. [condensed: adjective]
Example
Can you condense this paragraph into a single sentence? [condense: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Summarize is more commonly used than condense in everyday language. Summarize is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while condense is more specific and often used in academic or technical writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between summarize and condense?
Condense is typically associated with a more formal tone, as it is often used in academic or technical writing. Summarize can be used in both formal and informal contexts.