Deciphering: meaning, definitions and examples
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deciphering
[ dɪˈsaɪfərɪŋ ]
intelligence
The act of decoding a message, text, or information that is difficult to understand, especially one that is written in code.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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deciphering |
Used when figuring out difficult writing or hidden meanings, especially for ancient or coded texts.
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decode |
Often used in technical contexts, particularly related to converting encoded data or information into a readable format.
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interpret |
Used broadly when explaining the meaning of something, such as texts, symbols, or data. It can also refer to translating spoken or written language.
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decrypt |
Primarily used in the context of computer security and cryptography, referring to converting encrypted data back to its original form.
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Examples of usage
- Her deciphering of the ancient manuscript revealed a hidden message.
- The team spent hours deciphering the encrypted data to uncover the truth.
puzzle
To convert (a text written in code) into normal language or meaningful content; to figure out or solve (a puzzle or mystery).
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
deciphering |
Used when figuring out or making sense of challenging or unclear information, like a code or an ancient script.
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decode |
Typically used in technical or electronic contexts where converting encoded data into readable form is required.
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decrypt |
Commonly used in the context of converting encrypted information back to its original form, often with a focus on digital security and cryptography.
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interpret |
Utilized when explaining the meaning of something, particularly in arts, language or data. It is broader in use and can apply to abstract ideas or literature.
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Examples of usage
- She was able to decipher the secret code and read the message.
- The detective worked tirelessly to decipher the clues and solve the case.
Translations
Translations of the word "deciphering" in other languages:
🇵🇹 decifração
🇮🇳 डिकोडिंग
🇩🇪 Entschlüsselung
🇮🇩 pembacaan kode
🇺🇦 дешифрування
🇵🇱 deszyfrowanie
🇯🇵 解読 (kaidoku)
🇫🇷 déchiffrement
🇪🇸 descifrado
🇹🇷 deşifre
🇰🇷 해독 (haedok)
🇸🇦 فك التشفير
🇨🇿 dešifrování
🇸🇰 dešifrovanie
🇨🇳 破译 (pòyì)
🇸🇮 dešifriranje
🇮🇸 afkóðun
🇰🇿 шешу
🇬🇪 გაშიფვრა
🇦🇿 deşifrə
🇲🇽 descifrado
Etymology
The word 'decipher' originated from the Middle French word 'décifrer' meaning 'to decode'. It first appeared in the English language in the 16th century, derived from the Latin word 'dis-' (away) and 'ciphrum' (zero, figure). The concept of deciphering has been essential throughout history in fields such as codebreaking, cryptography, and linguistics.
See also: decipherable, decipherer, decipherment.
Word Frequency Rank
Positioned at #24,798, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.
- ...
- 24795 collaterally
- 24796 unconvinced
- 24797 dissimulation
- 24798 deciphering
- 24799 bedstead
- 24800 grog
- 24801 consulship
- ...