Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

interpret

[in-tur-prit] / ɪnˈtɜr prɪt /


Usage

What are other ways to say interpret? To interpret is to give the meaning of something by paraphrase, by translation, or by an explanation based on personal opinion: to interpret a poem or a symbol. To expound is to give a methodical, detailed, scholarly explanation of something, usually Scriptures, doctrines, or philosophy: to expound the doctrine of free will. To explain is to make plain, clear, or intelligible something that is not known or understood: to explain a theory or a problem. To elucidate is to throw light on what before was dark and obscure, usually by illustration and commentary and sometimes by elaborate explanation: They asked him to elucidate his statement. 

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A worksheet given to us asks us to interpret some core tenets, as well as to enter the reading with a question we would like to explore.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

Together, these findings can help reshape how we interpret the fossil record and raise fresh questions about the uniquely human ways our teeth are affected today.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

They become permissions granted or withheld based on the whim of those who interpret and adjudicate our laws.

From Slate • Jun. 4, 2026

The mandate is set by Congress but the Fed has had latitude to interpret how it achieves the goals.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

But unlike the early Christians, who had freed themselves to interpret parts of the Old Testament as metaphor, Maimonides was unwilling to Hellenize his religion completely.

From "Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea" by Charles Seife




Vocabulary lists containing interpret


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "interpret" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com