sum and substance

uncountable

The essential meaning of written or spoken words; gist, crux.

Japanese Meaning

本質 / 要旨 / 要点

Although his speech wandered through many topics, the sum and substance of his message was a call for unity.

彼の演説は多くの話題を行き来したが、要点は団結を呼びかけることだった。

Sense（1）

The essential meaning of written or spoken words; gist, crux.