Synonyms for

Interpretation

Verb / ˌɪˌntɜ:prɪˈteɪʃʌn / Another word for interpretation — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Interpretation means the act of explaining or understanding something in a particular way.

Synonyms & similar words

rendition rendering reading version interpreting explanation meaning understanding clarification elucidation exegesis explication rendition translation version account reading analysis commentary critique assessment evaluation judgment opinion view

Synonyms by register

Formal

exegesis construal reading explanation

Informal

take spin understanding takeaway

Literary

rendering gloss

Antonyms

original source fact reality verbatim literal misunderstanding

Common collocations

  • a clear interpretation
  • a different interpretation
  • my interpretation
  • the interpretation of
  • interpretations of the data
  • a subjective interpretation
  • artistic interpretation

Word family

noun interpretation
verb interpret
adjective interpretive

Usage note

Interpretation often implies a subjective understanding or explanation of something, which may differ from the original meaning or intent. Be mindful of the context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher gave her interpretation of the story.
  2. The audience had their own interpretation of the movie.
  3. The lawyer's interpretation of the law was different from the judge's.
  4. The artist's interpretation of the landscape was unique.
  5. The musician's interpretation of the song was emotional.

Quotes

  • Interpretation is the revenge of the intellectual upon art. - Susan Sontag
  • The only way to understand paintings is to write about them. - Clement Greenberg
  • The interpretation of dreams is the royal road to a knowledge of the unconscious activities of the mind. - Sigmund Freud

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