25 Other Ways to Say “In Conclusion”
“In conclusion” is a widely used phrase that signals the end of a discussion, argument, or written piece. Whether it’s wrapping up a speech, finalizing an essay, or finishing a report, this phrase lets the reader or listener know that the key points have been addressed and that a final thought is being delivered.
However, relying on the same phrase over and over again can make writing or speech feel repetitive or predictable. To keep your language dynamic and engaging—especially in academic, professional, or creative contexts—it’s helpful to have a variety of alternatives to “in conclusion.” Each alternative carries its own tone and nuance, and choosing the right one depends on what you want your final message to convey.
This article explores 25 different ways to say “in conclusion,” providing clear definitions, example sentences, and explanations of usage to help you expand your communication toolkit.
Other Ways to Say “In Conclusion”
1. To sum up
Example: “To sum up, the new strategy significantly improved productivity across departments.”
Meaning: This phrase clearly signals a concise restatement of the main ideas.
Usage: Ideal for both formal and informal contexts, especially when you want to wrap up a summary in a direct manner.
2. In summary
Example: “In summary, the data shows a consistent upward trend in user engagement.”
Meaning: Similar to “to sum up,” this expression emphasizes a brief overview of key points.
Usage: Commonly used in professional, academic, and analytical writing.
3. All things considered
Example: “All things considered, investing in green energy is a prudent long-term decision.”
Meaning: This phrase suggests that after evaluating all aspects, the speaker is making a final judgment.
Usage: Best used when acknowledging multiple perspectives before arriving at a conclusion.
4. In closing
Example: “In closing, I want to thank everyone who contributed to this project.”
Meaning: Often used at the end of speeches or presentations, it marks the final remarks.
Usage: Works well in public speaking or formal written communication.
5. Ultimately
Example: “Ultimately, it’s the customer experience that defines a company’s success.”
Meaning: This word indicates the final outcome or the most important takeaway.
Usage: Suitable for analytical writing or persuasive arguments.
6. In essence
Example: “In essence, the policy aims to promote equity and transparency.”
Meaning: Used when reducing a complex idea to its core message.
Usage: Appropriate in both formal and academic writing when highlighting essential ideas.
7. As a final point
Example: “As a final point, let’s remember the importance of teamwork in achieving success.”
Meaning: Signals the very last idea the speaker wants to emphasize.
Usage: Useful in presentations, essays, or lectures.
8. Lastly
Example: “Lastly, we must consider the environmental impact of our actions.”
Meaning: Introduces the final idea or point in a sequence.
Usage: Works well in structured discussions or written formats where points are listed.
9. As we have seen
Example: “As we have seen, effective leadership requires both empathy and clarity.”
Meaning: Reflects back on previously discussed points to reinforce the conclusion.
Usage: Effective in academic or analytical writing.
10. To wrap things up
Example: “To wrap things up, this proposal offers a balanced and realistic approach.”
Meaning: A casual yet clear phrase for ending a discussion.
Usage: Suitable for less formal contexts like blog posts, workplace meetings, or personal reflections.
11. To conclude
Example: “To conclude, the evidence supports implementing the new safety measures.”
Meaning: A straightforward and classic way to indicate a final statement.
Usage: Universally applicable in speeches, papers, or business documents.
12. All in all
Example: “All in all, the trip was a great learning experience.”
Meaning: Sums up the overall sentiment or outcome.
Usage: Often used in casual conversation, travel writing, or storytelling.
13. Drawing to a close
Example: “As the seminar is drawing to a close, we thank you for your participation.”
Meaning: A poetic or thoughtful way to indicate something is ending.
Usage: Works well in formal or ceremonial contexts.
14. Overall
Example: “Overall, the feedback from customers has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Meaning: Provides a high-level evaluation or conclusion.
Usage: Common in reports, reviews, and business analysis.
15. As a result
Example: “As a result, the team met its goals ahead of schedule.”
Meaning: Emphasizes a consequence or final outcome of discussed points.
Usage: Ideal for persuasive essays or logical arguments.
16. Thus
Example: “Thus, it’s clear that early intervention leads to better outcomes.”
Meaning: Indicates a logical result or deduction based on previous information.
Usage: Best suited for academic essays, research papers, and scientific analysis.
17. In retrospect
Example: “In retrospect, the decision to expand globally was a turning point.”
Meaning: Reflects on past events to derive a final insight or conclusion.
Usage: Effective in reflective writing or evaluative discussions.
18. To bring everything together
Example: “To bring everything together, our findings support a shift in strategy.”
Meaning: Combines various elements into a unified closing thought.
Usage: Useful in complex arguments or multifaceted reports.
19. Taking everything into account
Example: “Taking everything into account, this option offers the best balance of cost and quality.”
Meaning: Indicates that a conclusion is reached after considering all factors.
Usage: Appropriate for analytical writing or comprehensive reviews.
20. In brief
Example: “In brief, we achieved our targets despite the challenges.”
Meaning: Presents a condensed final statement.
Usage: Effective when summarizing for readers who want key takeaways quickly.
21. In a nutshell
Example: “In a nutshell, the app solves a real problem with a simple design.”
Meaning: Captures the essence of a discussion in a simple summary.
Usage: Informal and commonly used in conversational writing or speaking.
22. Let me leave you with this
Example: “Let me leave you with this: progress requires both patience and persistence.”
Meaning: Offers a thought-provoking or reflective closing remark.
Usage: Ideal for speeches or articles that want to leave a lasting impression.
23. It all comes down to this
Example: “It all comes down to this: consistency beats talent over time.”
Meaning: Highlights the most critical or essential takeaway.
Usage: Suitable for persuasive writing, motivational speeches, or impactful conclusions.
24. As previously stated
Example: “As previously stated, collaboration is key to this project’s success.”
Meaning: Reiterates an earlier point for emphasis in the conclusion.
Usage: Works well in formal documents or detailed written arguments.
25. My final thoughts are
Example: “My final thoughts are that we should act boldly, not cautiously.”
Meaning: Indicates a personal and reflective conclusion.
Usage: Often used in blogs, opinion pieces, or farewell addresses.
When to Use Different “In Conclusion” Alternatives
In Academic Writing
In academic settings, where clarity and structure are key, alternatives such as “thus,” “to conclude,” “in summary,” or “as a result” lend credibility and precision to your final arguments. These phrases help students and researchers wrap up their points with authority while maintaining a professional tone.
In Professional Communication
When drafting emails, proposals, reports, or presentations, it’s helpful to choose conclusion phrases like “overall,” “to sum up,” “taking everything into account,” or “drawing to a close.” These expressions allow for a polished finish while signaling thorough analysis and clear finality in your communication.
In Speeches or Presentations
For public speaking or more conversational settings, choose natural and impactful alternatives like “to wrap things up,” “let me leave you with this,” “lastly,” or “in closing.” These expressions help maintain engagement and emphasize the importance of your final message.
Conclusion
The phrase “in conclusion” is an effective way to end a discussion, but overusing it can make your communication feel repetitive or uninspired. By incorporating a variety of alternatives—each with its own tone and function—you can tailor your closing statements to better match the context, audience, and purpose of your message. Whether you’re writing a research paper, giving a keynote speech, or composing a blog post, selecting the right closing phrase can leave a strong and lasting impact.
FAQs
What does “in conclusion” mean?
“In conclusion” is a phrase used to signal that a summary or final thought is being presented at the end of a speech, paper, or discussion.
Is “in conclusion” too formal?
“In conclusion” is considered neutral and suitable for most formal and semi-formal contexts. However, there are alternatives that can be more natural or conversational depending on the setting.
What’s a more creative way to say “in conclusion”?
Phrases like “to wrap things up,” “let me leave you with this,” or “it all comes down to this” provide more engaging ways to end your thoughts, especially in storytelling or motivational content.
Can I use “in summary” and “in conclusion” interchangeably?
Yes, in many contexts, they can be used similarly. However, “in summary” typically introduces a recap of previous points, while “in conclusion” signals a final or closing thought.
Are these alternatives suitable for academic essays?
Yes, options like “thus,” “in summary,” “to conclude,” and “as a result” are especially useful in academic writing where clarity, structure, and tone matter.
