interpret

[in-tur-prit] / ɪnˈtɜr prɪt /

VERB

make sense of; define

Synonyms

STRONGEST

clarify construe decipher depict describe enact explain illustrate portray read solve translate understand view

STRONG

adapt annotate comment commentate decode delineate elucidate exemplify explicate expound gather gloss image improvise limn mimic paraphrase perform picture play reenact render represent take

WEAK

make of spell out throw light on

Antonyms

STRONGEST

confuse disbelieve mix up obscure

STRONG

cloud direct fail misunderstand mystify stop

WEAK

misinterpret

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.

“It’s like being an actor. I interpret what’s already there. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I guess I like the process, and when it’s over, it’s over,” he told the outlet.

From MarketWatch

It exploits weakness and interprets accommodation as an invitation to demand more.

From Salon

This can be interpreted in two ways, I suppose, just like the word “partner” can mean two things depending on who’s saying it, but from my perspective, it’s very telling.

From Salon

Nevertheless, she said, it has been interpreted by both parties for centuries as a final-resort emergency option to be used only when law and order has completely broken down.

From The Wall Street Journal

However, judge Lord Sandison rejected the claims, describing the way Biffa interpreted the letter as "wishful thinking" on a par with trying to turn "base metal into gold".

From BBC

interpret

Usage

Example Sentences

Related Words