interpretation

A particular way of understanding what something means.

• That is one possible interpretation.
• Your interpretation of the rule seems reasonable.
• The poem allows several different interpretations.

How to use it: interpretation of something (My interpretation of his message was different.)

Similar words: reading, understanding

Common phrases: different interpretation, possible interpretation, interpretation of something

The process of working out what information or signs mean.

• Interpretation of the data takes time.
• Her training helped with the interpretation of the results.
• Accurate interpretation depends on knowing the context.

How to use it: interpretation of something (The interpretation of these results requires care.)

Similar words: analysis

Common phrases: data interpretation, interpretation of results, accurate interpretation

The particular way an artist presents or expresses a work or idea.

• I enjoyed her interpretation of the song.
• The actor offered a fresh interpretation of Hamlet.
• His paintings are a personal interpretation of city life.

How to use it: interpretation of something (Her interpretation of the role brought out its humor.)

Similar words: rendition

Common phrases: personal interpretation, musical interpretation, interpretation of something

An explanation of something unclear, or a version of it in another language.

• He gave us an interpretation of the dream.
• The meeting included simultaneous interpretation into French.
• Her interpretation made the ancient message easier to understand.

How to use it: interpretation of something (She offered an interpretation of the strange symbols.)

Similar words: explanation, translation

Common phrases: dream interpretation, simultaneous interpretation, interpretation of something