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Interpreted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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interpreted

[ɪnˈtɜrprɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

language context

The word 'interpreted' is the past tense of the verb 'interpret'. It refers to the act of explaining the meaning of something, such as words or actions. This can include translating spoken or written language from one language to another. It can also mean to provide one's own understanding or explanation of an idea or situation. Interpretation is crucial in many fields, including law, education, and the arts.

Synonyms

clarified, explained, translated.

Examples of usage

  • She interpreted his gesture as a sign of agreement.
  • The speaker was interpreted by a professional translator.
  • The lawyer interpreted the contract for the client.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • How we interpret events can significantly affect our emotions and reactions, a concept known as cognitive appraisal.
  • Different cultures often interpret the same action or event differently, highlighting the role of cultural context.
  • Psychologists explore how biases can shape the way we interpret social interactions.

Literature

  • Interpreting literature involves analyzing texts to uncover deeper meanings and themes.
  • In literary criticism, various schools of thought lead to different interpretations of the same work, such as feminist or Marxist readings.
  • Symbols and metaphors within texts often require readers to interpret their significance based on context.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often invite viewers to interpret characters' motivations differently, leading to diverse fan theories.
  • Song lyrics can be interpreted in various ways, with fans often debating the intended meanings behind a song.
  • Art exhibitions encourage viewers to interpret artwork based on personal experiences and emotions.

Communication

  • Non-verbal cues play a crucial role in how messages are interpreted, such as body language and tone of voice.
  • In languages, interpretation can refer to translating spoken word for audiences who speak different languages.
  • Misinterpretation can lead to misunderstandings, underscoring the importance of clear communication.

Origin of 'interpreted'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'interpretari', which means 'to explain or understand'.
  • In the Middle Ages, the term was used in legal contexts, referring to explaining laws or rulings.
  • It evolved through Old French before entering English in the late 14th century.

The word 'interpret' comes from the Latin 'interpretare', which means 'to explain, expound, or clarify'. This Latin term is a combination of 'inter', meaning 'between', and 'pretare', which means 'to explain or intercede'. The term has evolved over centuries, taking on additional meanings related to translation and understanding. By the late Middle Ages, 'interpret' was being used in English to refer not only to language translation but also to the broader act of conveying meaning or intent. The past tense 'interpreted' has been commonly used in English since at least the 16th century, reflecting its long-standing importance in communication and understanding across languages and cultures.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,385, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.