Interpreting
/ɪnˈtɜːrprətɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo explain the meaning or significance of something; to translate from one language to another; to understand or conceive of something in a particular way.
/ɪnˈtɜːrprət/
To explain the meaning of something.
The archaeologist is interpreting the ancient hieroglyphs.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're watching a movie in a language you don't understand. An interpreter is like your personal translator, explaining what's happening on screen. It's about figuring out what something means or making it understandable.
👶 For kids: To explain what something means or to change words from one language to another.
More Examples
The artist allows the audience to interpret his artwork in various ways.
She was hired to interpret for the diplomats at the summit.
I interpreted his silence as a sign of disapproval.
How It's Used
"The interpreter translated the speech from French to English."
"The judge interpreted the law in favor of the defendant."
To perform or render (a work of art, a role, etc.) in a particular way; to present or understand in a particular manner.
/ɪnˈtɜːrprət/
To perform or render something.
The pianist interpreted the piece with great skill and feeling.
💡 Simply: Think about an actor in a play. They are *interpreting* the character, bringing their own style and feelings to the role. It's like adding your own flair and feeling to something.
👶 For kids: When you make something your own, like singing a song in your own way or acting in a play.
More Examples
The actor interpreted the role of Hamlet with a modern twist.
She interpreted the music in a unique and moving way.
How It's Used
"The violinist interpreted the concerto with great passion."
"She interpreted the song with great emotion."
Idioms & expressions
Lost in interpretation
When something's meaning is unclear and confused after many attempts to understand or translate it.
"The instructions were so convoluted that the project was lost in interpretation."
From Old French *interpreter* (12th c.), from Latin *interpretari* 'to explain, expound, translate', from *interpres* 'agent, translator'.
The word has been used to describe the process of understanding and explaining something since the 13th century, evolving from legal and religious contexts to broader applications in the arts and sciences.
Memory tip
Imagine a translator deciphering a secret message.
Word Origin
"to explain, expound, translate"