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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.

The aim is to refine how we interpret the past while finding new ways on how to prevent dental disease today.

From Science Daily • Jun. 8, 2026

How insurers interpret limitations on “activities of daily living” can also restrict payouts.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 1, 2026

The FDA also said the mix of patients enrolled made the results hard to interpret.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 30, 2026

She said: "I had no idea there was a different way to interpret the world."

From BBC • May 29, 2026

Lying half awake, Descartes tried to interpret his dreams.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton




Vocabulary lists containing interpret


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