In 15 Seconds
- Signals you are about to state your final point.
- Perfect for summarizing long stories or business presentations.
- Acts as a verbal 'TL;DR' for your listeners.
Meaning
It is like saying 'The bottom line is' or 'To wrap things up.' You use it when you have explained a lot of details and want to deliver your final point clearly.
Key Examples
3 of 6In a business meeting
結論として、このプランを採用すべきだと思います。
In conclusion, I think we should adopt this plan.
Explaining a long story to a friend
結論として、あの店はもう行かないかな。
In conclusion, I probably won't go to that shop again.
Texting a group about a trip
結論として、集合時間は8時でいい?
In conclusion, is 8:00 AM okay for the meeting time?
Cultural Background
In Japanese business, being too direct can be seen as aggressive. Using this phrase helps soften the blow by framing it as a logical conclusion rather than a personal demand.
The Pause
Always pause briefly after saying {結論として|けつろんとして} to let your audience prepare for the main point.
In 15 Seconds
- Signals you are about to state your final point.
- Perfect for summarizing long stories or business presentations.
- Acts as a verbal 'TL;DR' for your listeners.
What It Means
Think of 結論として as your verbal 'TL;DR' button. It tells your listener, 'Okay, I’ve said a lot, but here is the most important part.' It comes from 結論 (conclusion) and として (as). Together, they signal that you are moving from the details to the final verdict. It is a powerful way to focus everyone's attention.
How To Use It
You usually place this right at the start of your final sentence. It acts as a bridge between your reasoning and your decision. In Japanese, people often provide a lot of context before getting to the point. This phrase is the signal that the 'point' has finally arrived. You can use it in speech or writing. It sounds organized and thoughtful.
When To Use It
This is a superstar in business meetings. If you are presenting data, use it to state your final recommendation. It is also great for school essays or debates. Even in daily life, use it if you have been rambling about a long story. It helps your friends understand your main takeaway. Use it when you want to sound decisive and clear.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using this for very short, simple statements. If you just say 'I'm hungry,' you don't need a conclusion. It can feel a bit too 'heavy' or 'stiff' for a quick text to a best friend. If you use it too much, you might sound like a walking textbook. Don't use it if you haven't actually provided any reasoning yet. It needs something to conclude!
Cultural Background
Japanese communication often follows a style called *Kishōtenketsu*. This is a four-step structure where the 'conclusion' comes at the very end. Westerners often start with the point, but Japanese speakers build up to it. 結論として is the flag that says you have reached the final stage. It shows respect for the listener's patience by summarizing clearly.
Common Variations
If you want something slightly more casual, try 結局 (kekkyoku), which means 'after all.' For a logical summary, つまり (tsumari) works well to mean 'in other words.' If you are in a very formal setting, you might hear 結びに (musubi ni). But for most situations, 結論として is your most reliable and versatile tool.
Usage Notes
It sits comfortably in the 'neutral to formal' range. While it's great for business, using it in casual speech adds a layer of clarity (or mock-seriousness).
The Pause
Always pause briefly after saying {結論として|けつろんとして} to let your audience prepare for the main point.
Examples
6結論として、このプランを採用すべきだと思います。
In conclusion, I think we should adopt this plan.
A classic way to end a professional proposal.
結論として、あの店はもう行かないかな。
In conclusion, I probably won't go to that shop again.
Summarizes a bad experience at a restaurant.
結論として、集合時間は8時でいい?
In conclusion, is 8:00 AM okay for the meeting time?
Wraps up a long group chat discussion.
結論として、彼は宇宙人だったのかもしれない。
In conclusion, he might have been an alien.
Using a formal phrase for a ridiculous summary.
結論として、私はあなたと一緒にいたいです。
In conclusion, I want to be with you.
Adds weight and sincerity to a heartfelt statement.
結論として、映像は綺麗だったけど話は微妙だった。
In conclusion, the visuals were pretty but the story was meh.
Provides a balanced final verdict.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct phrase.
______, we need to change the plan.
It is the only formal transition phrase provided.
🎉 Score: /1
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
1 exercises______, we need to change the plan.
It is the only formal transition phrase provided.
🎉 Score: /1
Frequently Asked Questions
1 questionsYes, it is excellent for professional emails.
Related Phrases
要するに
synonymIn short