interpret
/ɪnˈtɜːrprɪt/to explain or understand the meaning of something, often based on analysis or context
She interpreted the poem in her own unique way.
She gave her own understanding of the poem's meaning.
The translator interpreted the speech from French to English.
The translator conveyed the meaning of the French speech in English.
Can be used for both understanding and explaining something.
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💡Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'interpret' often depends on the context. For example, interpreting a law is different from interpreting a poem.
⚡Gold Rule
Transitive and Intransitive Use
'Interpret' can be used both with and without an object. For example, 'She interpreted the poem' (transitive) and 'The poem can be interpreted in many ways' (intransitive).
📖Word Origin
From Latin 'interpretari', meaning 'to explain, expound, translate'.
📝Usage Notes
Can be used both transitively (with an object) and intransitively (without an object).