To cut a long story short...

Meaning

To summarize a lengthy narrative.

Examples

• John: Let me tell you about my day.
• Alice: I'm listening.
• John: Well, I had several meetings, a few unexpected delays, and then... <b>to cut a long story short</b>, I missed my train.
• Alice: Oh dear! <b>To cut a long story short</b>, what happened after that?