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Decipher: meaning, definitions and examples

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decipher

 

[dɪˈsaɪfər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

code breaking

To convert a coded message into ordinary language; to decode.

Synonyms

decode, decrypt, interpret.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
decipher

Use this term when you need to figure out or understand something that is confusing or written in a complex code.

  • She managed to decipher the ancient script.
  • It took them hours to decipher the mysterious message.
decode

This word is suitable for translating encrypted or encoded information back into its original form.

  • The spy was able to decode the secret transmissions.
  • We need to decode this file to understand its contents.
decrypt

Frequently used in the context of computer science or cryptography, referring to converting code back into readable text.

  • They used a key to decrypt the encrypted data.
  • The software can decrypt files that have been locked by ransomware.
interpret

Best used when explaining the meaning of something, often in the context of languages, texts, or data.

  • He had to interpret the meaning of the ancient hieroglyphs.
  • The results of the experiment need to be carefully interpreted.

Examples of usage

  • The team of cryptographers was able to decipher the enemy's secret communications.
  • They spent weeks trying to decipher the encrypted files.
  • After hours of working on the puzzle, she finally managed to decipher the hidden message.
Context #2 | Verb

understand

To interpret or make sense of something that is difficult to understand or unclear.

Synonyms

interpret, understand.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
decipher

Best used when referring to converting a coded message into plain text or figuring out something that is obscure or difficult to read.

  • She was able to decipher the ancient script
  • The team worked hard to decipher the spy's coded message
interpret

Often used for explaining the meaning of something, such as data, text, or actions. It implies giving a personal or expert explanation.

  • The scientist interpreted the complex data
  • She interpreted his silence as a sign of disagreement
understand

Used in a broad sense to mean comprehending the meaning, especially in conversations, learning situations, and personal insights.

  • I finally understand how to solve this math problem
  • Do you understand what she is saying?

Examples of usage

  • It took me a while to decipher the meaning of the ancient hieroglyphics.
  • She tried to decipher the expression on his face to figure out what he was thinking.

Translations

Translations of the word "decipher" in other languages:

🇵🇹 decifrar

🇮🇳 डिकोड

🇩🇪 entziffern

🇮🇩 menguraikan

🇺🇦 розшифровувати

🇵🇱 rozszyfrować

🇯🇵 解読する

🇫🇷 déchiffrer

🇪🇸 descifrar

🇹🇷 deşifre etmek

🇰🇷 해독하다

🇸🇦 فك الشفرة

🇨🇿 dešifrovat

🇸🇰 dešifrovať

🇨🇳 破解

🇸🇮 dešifrirati

🇮🇸 afkóða

🇰🇿 шешу

🇬🇪 გაშიფვრა

🇦🇿 deşifrə etmək

🇲🇽 descifrar

Etymology

The word 'decipher' originated from the combination of the prefix 'de-' meaning 'reverse' or 'undo' and the Middle English word 'cipher' meaning 'zero' or 'code'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 15th century.

See also: cipher, ciphers.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,695, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.