interpret
interpret Lexical Profile
interpret Game Scores & Validity
• verb
To explain or clarify the meaning of information, words, or actions.
"The historians worked together to interpret the inscriptions found on the ancient stone tablet."
To understand or perceive an action, mood, or situation as having a particular meaning or significance.
"She chose to interpret his long silence as a sign of reluctant agreement."
To translate spoken words or sign language orally or visually into another language in real time.
"A diplomatic aide was hired to interpret for the visiting delegation during the summit."
To perform a dramatic role or piece of music in a way that conveys one's own artistic understanding of the creator's intentions.
"Each concert pianist will interpret the Chopin nocturne with slightly different phrasing and tempo."
Word Nuance & Usage
In professional linguistics, 'interpret' specifically refers to the real-time rendering of spoken or signed communication from one language into another, whereas 'translate' refers to rendering written text.
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French interpreter or directly from Latin interpretari ('to explain, expound, or understand'), derived from interpres ('an agent, negotiator, or translator between two parties').