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Interpreter: meaning, definitions and examples

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interpreter

 

[ ɪnˈtəːprɪtə ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

language

A person who translates spoken language from one language to another, often in real-time.

Synonyms

transcriber, translator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interpreter

Used when someone converts spoken words from one language to another in real-time.

  • The interpreter helped the tourists understand the local guide
  • In international conferences, interpreters are crucial for effective communication
translator

Used when someone converts written text from one language to another.

  • The translator worked on translating the novel from French to English
  • Professional translators are needed to ensure the accuracy of translated legal documents
transcriber

Used when someone converts spoken words into written text.

  • The transcriber worked diligently to convert the interview recordings into a written document
  • During the court hearing, the transcriber captured every spoken word accurately

Examples of usage

  • The conference hired an interpreter to help the attendees understand the foreign speakers.
  • The United Nations employs interpreters to facilitate communication between representatives from different countries.
Context #2 | Noun

technology

A program or device that converts code written in one programming language into another, usually for compatibility or optimization purposes.

Synonyms

compiler, translator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interpreter

In computing, 'interpreter' refers to a program that executes instructions of a high-level programming language directly, translating them into machine code on the fly.

  • Python uses an interpreter, which makes debugging easier.
  • Unlike a compiler, an interpreter executes code line by line.
compiler

This term is specific to computing and refers to a program that translates high-level programming code into machine language.

  • The compiler generates an executable file from the source code.
  • Errors in the code were detected when the compiler was unable to process it.
translator

Generally refers to someone who converts written text from one language to another, or can also refer to a program that translates code, though this is less common.

  • The translator worked on the book for over a year.
  • Hiring a professional translator ensures the document is accurately converted.

Examples of usage

  • This interpreter can convert Python code into machine code for faster execution.
  • The web browser uses an interpreter to process JavaScript code and display interactive content.
Context #3 | Verb

understand

To explain or understand something in a particular way.

Synonyms

explain, understand.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interpreter

Use when referring to someone who translates spoken or sign language.

  • The interpreter helped the tourists understand the local guide.
  • At the conference, an interpreter translated the speaker's words into several languages.
explain

Use when detailing or making something clear.

  • Can you explain the homework assignment to me?
  • The teacher explained the history of the ancient civilization.
understand

Use when having the ability to grasp the meaning or knowledge of something.

  • I didn't understand the question, could you ask it again?
  • She understood the importance of attending the meeting.

Examples of usage

  • She interpreted his silence as a sign of agreement.
  • The results can be interpreted in different ways depending on the context.

Translations

Translations of the word "interpreter" in other languages:

🇵🇹 intérprete

🇮🇳 दुभाषिया

🇩🇪 Dolmetscher

🇮🇩 penerjemah

🇺🇦 перекладач

🇵🇱 tłumacz

🇯🇵 通訳者

🇫🇷 interprète

🇪🇸 intérprete

🇹🇷 tercüman

🇰🇷 통역사

🇸🇦 مترجم

🇨🇿 tlumočník

🇸🇰 tlmočník

🇨🇳 口译员

🇸🇮 tolmač

🇮🇸 túlkandi

🇰🇿 аудармашы

🇬🇪 თარჯიმანი

🇦🇿 tərcüməçi

🇲🇽 intérprete

Etymology

The word 'interpreter' has its origins in the Latin word 'interpretari', meaning 'explain, expound, understand'. The term has been used in various contexts throughout history, from translating languages to decoding computer programming. Interpreters play a crucial role in facilitating communication and understanding across different languages and technologies.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,782 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.