Synonyms for

Interpret

Verb / ˌɪˈntɜ:prʌt / Another word for interpret — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to explain or understand the meaning of something

Synonyms & similar words

render translate construe understand read represent see rede explain decode translate clarify elucidate understand render define comprehend expound read construe analyze decipher reveal untangle unfold determine

Synonyms by register

Formal

expound elucidate clarify explain

Informal

figure out make sense of read into get

Literary

divine decipher unravel

Antonyms

misunderstand misconstrue distort garble obscure confuse

Common collocations

  • interpret data
  • interpret results
  • interpret meaning
  • interpret a dream
  • interpret the law
  • interpret a passage
  • interpret behavior

Word family

noun interpretation
verb interpret
adjective interpretive

Usage note

Often used when explaining the meaning of something unclear, such as data, art, or a dream. Be mindful of context, as 'interpret' can sometimes imply a subjective or personal understanding.

Example sentences

  1. I can interpret what the sign says.
  2. Can you interpret this message for me?
  3. The teacher will interpret the story for the students.
  4. I need help interpreting this code.
  5. The expert can interpret the findings of the study.

Quotes

  • The true test of character is not how much we know how to do, but how we behave when we don't know what to do. - John Holt
  • The meaning of any message is the change which it produces in the image. - Kenneth Boulding
  • The world is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper. - Bertrand Russell

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