Em Resumo vs. Resumindo: Summarize an Idea in Portuguese
Both expressions introduce a summary; choose a concise recap that reflects the details already discussed.
Real Life Portuguese · 5 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
Em resumo means in summary or in short. It signals that you are pulling together the main points rather than adding a new argument. It works in a presentation, email, or conversation.
Use em resumo to introduce a concise recap
Follow it with the central decision, finding, or request. If you need to preserve an important condition, include that too.
Em resumo, precisamos escolher a data e confirmar o local.
In summary, we need to choose the date and confirm the location.
Em resumo, o projeto está pronto, mas falta a aprovação final.
In short, the project is ready, but final approval is still needed.
Use resumindo as a conversational transition
Resumindo is the gerund form of resumir and works like to sum up. It often introduces a direct, compact restatement of a longer explanation.
The two phrases overlap in meaning. Resumindo can sound more conversational; em resumo often reads like a clear signpost in structured writing.
Resumindo, cada pessoa fica responsável por uma etapa.
To sum up, each person is responsible for one stage.
Resumindo a conversa: vamos testar a ideia antes de decidir.
To sum up the conversation: we will test the idea before deciding.
Keep the summary faithful to the discussion
A useful recap names what was decided, what remains open, and who will take the next step. Avoid introducing a conclusion that the group did not agree on.
You can use em uma frase (in one sentence) when you want to challenge yourself to be especially concise.
Em resumo, a decisão está pendente até recebermos o orçamento.
In summary, the decision is pending until we receive the estimate.
Resumindo, eu preparo o rascunho e você revisa amanhã.
To sum up, I'll prepare the draft and you will review it tomorrow.
Put it into practice
Use em resumo or resumindo to recap the main point, and keep the recap accurate to what was actually discussed.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “To sum up the conversation: we will test the idea before deciding”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
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