interpret
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪnˈtɜːrprɪt/
KK: /ɪnˈtɜrprɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To explain the meaning of something or to understand it in a particular way.
Example
She can interpret the poem in several different ways.
Tense Forms
Past: interpreted
Past Participle: interpreted
Conversation
Did you see how she interprets those complex texts?
Yeah, it's impressive! She really makes them understandable.
I wonder if I could learn to interpret like that.
With practice, I think you could definitely get there!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
explain
translate
clarify
Antonyms
misinterpret
confuse
obscure
transitive verb
Definition
To explain the meaning of something or to understand it in a particular way.
Example
She was asked to interpret the poem for the class.
Tense Forms
Past: interpreted
Past Participle: interpreted
Conversation
Did you see how she smiled when we complimented her art?
Yeah, I think she really interpreted our words positively.
I wonder how she would interpret our feedback if we suggested some changes.
Root Explanation
Interpret → It is formed from "inter-" (meaning between) and "pretare" (meaning to prepare or make ready). The word describes the act of making sense of something that exists between the speaker and the listener, essentially preparing the meaning for understanding.
Memory Tip
Think of someone 'preparing' ('pretare') the meaning of something that exists 'between' ('inter-') two people — that's why interpret means to explain or clarify.
Visually Confused Words
reinterpret
preinterpret
misinterpret
uninterpreted
terret