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interpret

[in-tur-prit] / ɪnˈtɜr prɪt /


Usage

What are other ways to say interpret? To interpret is to give the meaning of something by paraphrase, by translation, or by an explanation based on personal opinion: to interpret a poem or a symbol. To expound is to give a methodical, detailed, scholarly explanation of something, usually Scriptures, doctrines, or philosophy: to expound the doctrine of free will. To explain is to make plain, clear, or intelligible something that is not known or understood: to explain a theory or a problem. To elucidate is to throw light on what before was dark and obscure, usually by illustration and commentary and sometimes by elaborate explanation: They asked him to elucidate his statement. 

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A worksheet given to us asks us to interpret some core tenets, as well as to enter the reading with a question we would like to explore.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

Together, these findings can help reshape how we interpret the fossil record and raise fresh questions about the uniquely human ways our teeth are affected today.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

That’s why the laws that apply to the rest of us should apply to judges, and those who interpret our laws should be subject to those same laws.

From Slate • Jun. 8, 2026

The mandate is set by Congress but the Fed has had latitude to interpret how it achieves the goals.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

“You shall be able to interpret for me all of these marks...recalling the songs.”

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves" by M.T. Anderson




Vocabulary lists containing interpret


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