What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
summary
Example
Can you give me a summary of the article you read? [summary: noun]
Example
She summarized the main points of the book in her report. [summarized: verb]
abstract
Example
The abstract of the research paper provided a clear overview of the study. [abstract: noun]
Example
He abstracted the main findings of the study in his presentation. [abstracted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Summary is more commonly used than abstract in everyday language. Summary can be found in various contexts, such as news articles, book reviews, and movie synopses. Abstract is mainly used in academic writing and research.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between summary and abstract?
Abstract is more formal than summary because it is typically used in academic writing and research. Summary can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the context and audience.
