What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
summation
Example
The summation of the sales figures showed a significant increase from last year. [summation: noun]
Example
In his summation, the lawyer highlighted the key evidence that supported his client's case. [summation: noun]
summary
Example
Can you give me a summary of the article you just read? [summary: noun]
Example
She summarized the key findings of her research in a few sentences. [summarized: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Summary is more commonly used than summation in everyday language. Summary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while summation is less common and often used in specific fields, such as law or science.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between summation and summary?
Summation is often associated with formal contexts, such as legal or academic settings, while summary is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
