To summarize, …

Meaning

In short, this is the essence of what was said.

Examples

• John: 'The project has been delayed due to unforeseen circumstances.'
• Alice: '<b>To summarize,</b> the project is late because of unexpected problems?'
• John: '<b>To summarize,</b> the report isn't ready yet because it needs more information and better analysis?'
• Alice: 'The report needs more data and better analysis.'