B2verb1K

Interpret

UK /["/ɪnˈtɜːprət/","/ɪnˈtɜːprəts/","/ɪnˈtɜːprətɪd/","/ɪnˈtɜːprətɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪnˈtɜːrprət/","/ɪnˈtɜːrprəts/","/ɪnˈtɜːrprətɪd/","/ɪnˈtɜːrprətɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to explain the meaning of something

In simple words: To explain or understand something in a specific way.

Examples

  • It's important to interpret the data accurately to draw valid conclusions.
  • She was asked to interpret the poem during the literature class.
  • I can interpret this chart, but it requires a closer look.
  • Different cultures can interpret gestures in various ways.
  • The sign language interpreter will interpret the speaker's words for the audience.
  • Scientists often interpret results based on their previous knowledge.
  • He tried to interpret her silence as a sign of agreement.
  • Can you interpret what this ancient artifact means?

Usage notes

Use 'interpret' when explaining or translating information, often in formal or academic settings. Avoid in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

interpret + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'in-ter-pretty' — imagine explaining something in a pretty way.

Collocations

  • accurately
  • correctly
  • properly
  • be difficult to
  • be hard to
  • be able to
  • as
  • be interpreted to mean something
  • be variously interpreted (as something)
  • be widely interpreted as something
  • accurately
  • correctly
  • properly
  • be difficult to
  • be hard to
  • be able to
  • as
  • be interpreted to mean something
  • be variously interpreted (as something)
  • be widely interpreted as something
  • accurately
  • correctly
  • properly
  • be difficult to
  • be hard to
  • be able to
  • as
  • be interpreted to mean something
  • be variously interpreted (as something)
  • be widely interpreted as something

Synonyms

  • explain
  • clarify
  • translate
  • decode
  • elucidate

Antonyms

  • misinterpret
  • confuse
  • overlook

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'intercept' which means to stop something from reaching its destination.
  • Using 'interpret' without a clear object, like ‘interpret it’ instead of 'interpret the data'.
  • Misusing in contexts where 'translate' is more appropriate, especially in language translation.