Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen, dass
In summary, it can be stated that
Literally: Summarizingly lets itself determine that
In 15 Seconds
- Signals the final conclusion of a discussion.
- Sounds objective, professional, and very structured.
- Triggers a specific 'dass' sentence structure.
Meaning
This phrase is like hitting the 'TL;DR' button in a conversation. It signals that you're done with the details and are now delivering the final, objective bottom line.
Key Examples
3 of 6Ending a business presentation
Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen, dass das Projekt ein Erfolg war.
In summary, it can be stated that the project was a success.
Debating with friends about a bad movie
Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen, dass der Film reine Zeitverschwendung war.
In summary, it can be stated that the movie was a pure waste of time.
Writing a formal complaint letter
Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen, dass der Service ungenügend war.
In summary, it can be stated that the service was insufficient.
Cultural Background
Highly valued in academic settings.
Use sparingly
Don't use it more than once per presentation.
In 15 Seconds
- Signals the final conclusion of a discussion.
- Sounds objective, professional, and very structured.
- Triggers a specific 'dass' sentence structure.
What It Means
Think of this phrase as your grand finale. It tells your listener, 'Okay, I’ve given you all the facts, and here is the logical result.' It’s not just your opinion; it sounds like a factual conclusion that anyone would reach. It’s the verbal equivalent of closing a folder and tapping it on the desk. You are wrapping up a complex topic into one neat little package.
How To Use It
You usually put this right at the start of your concluding sentence. Because it starts with an adverbial phrase, the verb lässt comes next, followed by the subject sich. The word dass then kicks the next verb to the very end of the sentence. It sounds fancy, but it follows a very predictable rhythm. Just remember: once you say this, your next sentence better be the main point!
When To Use It
This is a superstar in professional and academic settings. Use it at the end of a presentation to look like a pro. Use it in a long email when you’ve listed five different problems and want to state the solution. You can even use it with friends if you’ve been debating which pizza place is better for twenty minutes and you want to end the argument with a bit of mock-seriousness.
When NOT To Use It
Don’t use this for tiny, everyday things. If someone asks if you want coffee, don’t say, 'In summary, it can be stated that I am thirsty.' You’ll sound like a robot or a very confused professor. Avoid it in high-energy, emotional situations too. If you’re professing your love, keep it simple; don't summarize your feelings like a quarterly earnings report.
Cultural Background
Germans deeply value 'Sachlichkeit'—which is a mix of objectivity and staying on point. This phrase is the embodiment of that value. It removes the 'I' from the sentence (sich lässt instead of ich finde), making the conclusion feel more authoritative and less biased. It’s a linguistic tool for building consensus in a culture that loves clear, logical structures.
Common Variations
If you want to sound a bit less like a textbook, you can use Kurz gesagt (Simply put). If you want to sound even more like a business mogul, try Unterm Strich lässt sich sagen (The bottom line is). For a very casual vibe, just use Alles in allem (All in all). Each one changes the 'flavor' of your conclusion while keeping the meaning the same.
Usage Notes
This is a high-register expression. The main 'gotcha' is the word order: the conjugated verb must go to the end of the 'dass' clause. It is most effective when used once at the very end of a thought process.
Use sparingly
Don't use it more than once per presentation.
Examples
6Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen, dass das Projekt ein Erfolg war.
In summary, it can be stated that the project was a success.
Perfect for a professional wrap-up.
Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen, dass der Film reine Zeitverschwendung war.
In summary, it can be stated that the movie was a pure waste of time.
Adds a funny, mock-serious tone to a casual debate.
Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen, dass der Service ungenügend war.
In summary, it can be stated that the service was insufficient.
Makes the complaint sound more objective and serious.
Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen: Ich brauche Urlaub!
In summary, it can be stated: I need a vacation!
Using a colon after the phrase is a common shortcut in texts.
Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen, dass wir einfach nicht zusammenpassen.
In summary, it can be stated that we simply don't fit together.
Provides a sense of finality and clarity.
Zusammenfassend lässt sich feststellen, dass das Wetter toll, aber das Hotel teuer war.
In summary, it can be stated that the weather was great, but the hotel was expensive.
Balances pros and cons in a neutral way.
Test Yourself
Complete the phrase.
Zusammenfassend ____ sich feststellen, dass...
The subject is singular.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercisesZusammenfassend ____ sich feststellen, dass...
The subject is singular.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsYes, if it is a formal business email.
Related Phrases
Kurz gesagt
synonymIn short
