Reinterpret: meaning, definitions and examples

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reinterpret

 

[ ˌriːɪnˈtɜː.prɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

in art

To reinterpret means to interpret or explain in a new or different way, often giving a fresh perspective or meaning to something that already exists. It involves looking at something from a different angle or providing a modern twist to a traditional concept.

Synonyms

reanalyze, redefine, reimagine.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reinterpret

When you want to explain or understand something in a new or different way, especially over time or with new information.

  • Scholars often reinterpret historical texts to find hidden meanings.
  • The director's reinterpretation of the classic play received mixed reviews.
redefine

When you need to change the meaning or scope of something, usually to reflect changes in perspective, society, or conditions.

  • Technological advancements continue to redefine what is possible in medicine.
  • The CEO aims to redefine the company's mission to better align with sustainability goals.
reanalyze

When you need to examine data or information again to draw different or more accurate conclusions.

  • Scientists decided to reanalyze the results after discovering a potential error in their methodology.
  • The company had to reanalyze market trends due to drastic changes in consumer behavior.
reimagine

When you envision something in a completely new or innovative way, often creatively or artistically.

  • The artist decided to reimagine the traditional portrait with modern techniques.
  • Urban planners are working to reimagine the city landscape to be more eco-friendly.

Examples of usage

  • The artist decided to reinterpret the classic painting by adding a contemporary touch to it.
  • Her reinterpretation of the play brought a whole new depth to the characters.
Context #2 | Verb

in literature

To reinterpret a text means to analyze and understand it in a new light, often uncovering hidden meanings or alternative interpretations that were not previously considered. It can involve reevaluating the context in which the text was written or exploring different perspectives.

Synonyms

reassessment, recontextualization, reinterpretation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reinterpret

Use when you want to explain or understand something in a new way or from a different perspective.

  • She decided to reinterpret the historical events based on new evidence.
  • The director's reinterpretation of the classic play was well-received.
reinterpretation

Similar to 'reinterpret,' used when explaining or understanding something in a new way but often involves a more formal or thorough process.

  • The book offers a fresh reinterpretation of ancient myths.
  • His reinterpretation of the law opened new avenues for discussion.
reassessment

Suitable for situations where you need to evaluate something again, often because new information or changes have occurred.

  • Due to the new regulations, a reassessment of the company's policies was necessary.
  • The medical team called for a reassessment of the patient's condition.
recontextualization

Best used when placing something in a new or different context to give it a new meaning or understanding.

  • The artist's work is a recontextualization of everyday objects.
  • Through recontextualization, the speech took on a completely new significance.

Examples of usage

  • The literary critic sought to reinterpret the novel by examining it through a feminist lens.
  • The author's reinterpretation of the myth challenged traditional beliefs.

Translations

Translations of the word "reinterpret" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reinterpretar

🇮🇳 पुनर्व्याख्या करना

🇩🇪 neu interpretieren

🇮🇩 menafsirkan kembali

🇺🇦 переосмислити

🇵🇱 reinterpretować

🇯🇵 再解釈する (さいかいしゃくする)

🇫🇷 réinterpréter

🇪🇸 reinterpretar

🇹🇷 yeniden yorumlamak

🇰🇷 재해석하다

🇸🇦 إعادة تفسير

🇨🇿 přehodnotit

🇸🇰 prehodnotiť

🇨🇳 重新解释 (chóngxīn jiěshì)

🇸🇮 ponovno interpretirati

🇮🇸 endurtúlka

🇰🇿 қайта түсіндіру

🇬🇪 ხელახალი ინტერპრეტაცია (khelakhali interpre'tatsia)

🇦🇿 təkrar şərh etmək

🇲🇽 reinterpretar

Etymology

The word 'reinterpret' originated from the prefix 're-' meaning again or anew, and the word 'interpret' meaning to explain the meaning of something. The concept of reinterpretation has been present throughout history in various fields such as art, literature, and philosophy, where individuals have sought to bring fresh perspectives and insights to existing ideas.

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

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,593, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.