Interpretation: meaning, definitions and examples

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interpretation

 

[ ɪnˌtəːprɪˈteɪʃn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in communication

The action of explaining the meaning of something.

Synonyms

exegesis, explanation, understanding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interpretation

Notice this is a repeat and is used in the same context as above.

  • Her interpretation of the painting highlighted its emotional depth
  • The judge's interpretation of the law was crucial in the case
explanation

Commonly used in everyday situations where someone provides a clarification or details to help others understand something.

  • Can you give me a clear explanation of how this machine works? His explanation of the math problem was very helpful
understanding

Refers to the ability to grasp the meaning, significance, or nature of something, often after learning or experiencing it.

  • His deep understanding of the subject made him an excellent teacher
  • The book gave me a better understanding of history
exegesis

Typically used in a scholarly or academic context, often related to the critical explanation or analysis of a religious text.

  • The professor's exegesis of the Bible provided new insights to the students
  • Her exegesis of the ancient manuscript was widely published

Examples of usage

  • He gave a clear interpretation of the results.
  • Art is open to interpretation.
  • Her interpretation of the novel was unique.
  • The interpreter provided a simultaneous interpretation of the speech.
  • The film sparked a lot of debate over its interpretation.
Context #2 | Noun

in performing arts

A performer's individual way of rendering a piece of music, a part in a play, etc.

Synonyms

execution, performance, rendition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interpretation

Use when explaining the meaning or understanding of something.

  • Her interpretation of the poem was quite unique.
  • The lawyer's interpretation of the law helped win the case.
rendition

Often used in artistic contexts, such as music or theater, to describe a unique or specific version of a piece.

  • The singer's rendition of the national anthem gave everyone chills.
  • Their rendition of Shakespeare's play brought new life to the old story.
performance

Used when talking about someone acting, presenting, or how well someone does in an activity.

  • Her performance in the play was outstanding.
  • The athlete's performance was record-breaking.
execution

Usually referred to the act of carrying out a plan, order, or course of action. Often used in legal or formal settings.

  • The execution of the project was flawless.
  • His execution of the dance routine was perfect.

Examples of usage

  • His interpretation of the character was refreshing.
  • The conductor's interpretation of the symphony was outstanding.
  • She put her own interpretation on the classic piece.
Context #3 | Noun

in law

The action of explaining the meaning of a legal document or statute.

Synonyms

clarification, elucidation, explanation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interpretation

Used when offering a specific understanding or viewpoint on something, often related to art, literature, or events.

  • Her interpretation of the painting was that it symbolized human freedom
  • The actor's unique interpretation of the character won him an award
explanation

Used in everyday situations to describe the act of making something clear or understandable by giving details.

  • She gave a detailed explanation of how the machine works
  • His explanation of the rules helped everyone understand the game
clarification

Used when making something clear or easier to understand, often by providing more information or a detailed explanation.

  • After reading the contract, he asked for some clarification on certain clauses
  • The teacher provided clarification on the homework assignment
elucidation

Used in formal settings or academic contexts when explaining or making something clear, shedding light on a complex topic.

  • The professor's elucidation of the theory helped all the students grasp the concept
  • Her book offers a thorough elucidation of quantum mechanics

Examples of usage

  • The lawyer provided an interpretation of the contract terms.
  • The judge's interpretation of the law was controversial.

Translations

Translations of the word "interpretation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 interpretação

🇮🇳 व्याख्या

🇩🇪 Interpretation

🇮🇩 interpretasi

🇺🇦 інтерпретація

🇵🇱 interpretacja

🇯🇵 解釈

🇫🇷 interprétation

🇪🇸 interpretación

🇹🇷 yorum

🇰🇷 해석

🇸🇦 تفسير

🇨🇿 interpretace

🇸🇰 interpretácia

🇨🇳 解释

🇸🇮 interpretacija

🇮🇸 túlkun

🇰🇿 түсіндіру

🇬🇪 ინტერპრეტაცია

🇦🇿 təfsir

🇲🇽 interpretación

Etymology

The word 'interpretation' comes from the Latin word 'interpretatio', which means explanation or translation. The concept of interpreting meaning has been essential in various fields such as communication, performing arts, and law. Throughout history, interpretation has played a crucial role in understanding texts, artworks, and legal documents. The importance of interpretation continues to evolve as societies embrace diverse perspectives and meanings.

See also: interpret, interpretable, interpretations, interpretative, interpreter, interpreting, interpretive, misinterpret, misinterpretation, reinterpret, reinterpretation.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,610, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.