Interpretative: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when discussing something that involves providing a personal interpretation or understanding, often in arts, literature, or performance contexts.

• The interpretative dance performance told a poignant story about love and loss.
• Her interpretative essay on Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' was deeply insightful.

This word is best suited for situations where something is being explained clearly and logically, particularly for instructional or informative purposes.

• The teacher provided an explanatory handout to help students understand the complex topic.
• His explanatory notes made the math problems much easier to solve.

Use this word when referring to something aimed at exploring or investigating new ideas or areas, often in research or studies.

• The team embarked on an exploratory research study to understand the effects of climate change on local wildlife.
• Her exploratory trip through the Amazon rainforest was filled with unexpected discoveries.

This word is ideal for formal presentations of facts or ideas in a clear and structured way, typically in writing or speeches.

• The scientist's expository article provided a detailed explanation of the new theory.
• During the conference, he delivered an expository speech on the latest advancements in technology.

Used when referring to something that provides an explanation or understanding. Often used in academic, artistic, or analytical contexts.

• The interpretative analysis shed new light on the complex relationship between the characters.
• She took an interpretative approach to the historical documents.

Used to describe something that clearly shows emotions, feelings, or ideas. Commonly used in arts, music, and performance.

• His expressive performance moved everyone in the audience.
• The painting is very expressive of her inner turmoil.

Used when talking about art or visuals that depict recognizable subjects. It contrasts with abstract or non-representational art.

• Her representational artwork captures the beauty of everyday scenes.
• The artist is known for his detailed representational paintings of nature.

Used to describe something that represents or stands for something else, often abstract ideas. Widely used in literature, art, and communication.

• The dove is a symbolic representation of peace.
• The author uses the storm as a symbolic element to convey chaos and conflict.

Used when giving an explanation or analysis of something, especially in the arts, literature, or performances, to show the meaning or significance.

• The interpretative dance performance captured the essence of the poem beautifully.
• Her interpretative skills helped the audience understand the complex themes of the novel.

Refers to the theory and methodology of interpretation, especially of scriptural or philosophical texts. Often used in academic, philosophical, or theological discussions.

• The hermeneutic method helped scholars better understand the ancient manuscripts.
• His hermeneutic approach to philosophy changed how we interpret existential texts.

Typically used in a scholarly or religious context to describe critical explanations or interpretations of texts, particularly scriptural or religious texts.

• The exegetic study of the scriptures revealed deeper philosophical meanings.
• Her exegetic analysis of the Quranic verses was both detailed and enlightening.

Applied to texts or speeches that provide comments, opinions, or explanations, often seen in academic or religious contexts.

• The professor's commentarial notes on the ancient text provided valuable insights.
• His commentarial approach to the political debate was informative and balanced.