noun

interpretation

in-TUR-pruh-TAY-shun

Interpretation (noun) means the particular meaning that someone takes from something, especially where more than one reading is possible. Example: “That is one interpretation of the poem, but not the only one.”

noun

The particular meaning that someone takes from something, especially where more than one reading is possible.

"That is one interpretation of the poem, but not the only one."

"The two lawyers offered opposite interpretations of the same clause."

The way a performer chooses to play or present a piece of music, a role, or a text.

"Her interpretation of the Chopin nocturne was unusually restrained."

"The director's interpretation moves the play to 1960s Chicago."

The act of translating speech from one language into another as it is spoken.

"Simultaneous interpretation was provided in five languages."

How to use interpretation

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWhat you decide something means.

When to use it

Neutral. Common in law, literary study, music and diplomacy.

Memory tip

Say open to interpretation, not open for interpretation.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

interpretation vs translation interpretation vs analysis

Common pairings

open to interpretation literal interpretation strict interpretation a matter of interpretation interpretation of the data

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “interpretation” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

That is one _____ of the poem, but not the only one.

Etymology

From Latin interpretari, "to explain or translate", from interpres, meaning an agent or go-between.

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

View more →

reading understanding construal take explanation rendition performance treatment translation

Related words

have take give reason deal bring return hold

Rhymes for interpretation

region billion ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation abortion abrasion diffusion elocution extension

See all rhymes for interpretation →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between interpretation and translation?

Interpretation deals with spoken language and happens live, so the interpreter must work in real time. Translation deals with written text and allows the translator to revise and research. Both convert meaning between languages, but the skills are quite different.

What does open to interpretation mean?

It means something can reasonably be understood in more than one way, so no single reading is definitively correct. People often say it about ambiguous contract wording, art, or a remark whose intent is unclear.

What is the difference between interpretation and analysis?

Analysis breaks something down into its parts and describes how they work. Interpretation goes further and says what it means or signifies. A good essay usually does both: analyse the evidence, then interpret it.

What is the meaning of interpretation?

"interpretation" (noun) means the particular meaning that someone takes from something, especially where more than one reading is possible.

People also searched

have take give reason deal bring return hold