interpretation
High (C1)Formal, widely used in academic, legal, artistic, and technical contexts.
Definition
Meaning
The act of explaining or understanding the meaning or significance of something, such as a text, event, or data.
A particular way of performing or representing a creative work (like a piece of music or a role) that reflects the performer's understanding. In law, it refers to the official explanation of the meaning of a statute or legal document.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often implies an element of subjective judgment or perspective. It is the *result* or *product* of the act of interpreting.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Spelling is consistent. Usage in legal and artistic contexts is identical.
Connotations
Neutral. In both varieties, the word carries connotations of analysis, expertise, and potential for differing viewpoints.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[give/offer/provide] an interpretation of [something][subject] allows for/ is open to interpretation[arrive at/ come to] an interpretation[challenge/question] an interpretationVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A matter of interpretation”
- “Open to interpretation”
- “Put an interpretation on something”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
The board's interpretation of the market data led to a cautious investment strategy.
Academic
Her paper offers a feminist interpretation of the Victorian novel.
Everyday
My interpretation of his text was that he was running late.
Technical
The software's output requires careful interpretation by a qualified geologist.
Examples
By Part of Speech
noun
British English
- The curator's interpretation of the artist's late period was enlightening.
- The contract clause is vague and subject to interpretation.
American English
- The Supreme Court's interpretation of the amendment set a new precedent.
- Her interpretation of the jazz standard was uniquely personal.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I don't understand this map. Can you give me your interpretation?
- The director's modern interpretation of the classic play divided the critics.
- Legal scholars often debate the correct interpretation of constitutional principles.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of an INTERpreter at a PREsentation giving their explanaTION. An INTER-PRE-TATION.
Conceptual Metaphor
UNDERSTANDING IS SEEING ("I see your interpretation"), MEANING IS A PATH ("a narrow interpretation"), and IDEAS ARE OBJECTS ("to put an interpretation on something").
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with "интерпретация" which is a direct cognate and generally correct, but note that in Russian it can sound more bookish. In English, "interpretation" is the standard, neutral term for this concept across all registers.
- Avoid using "толкование" as a direct translation unless in a specifically legal/philological context; the English word has a wider application.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: 'He made an interpretation of the law.' (Better: 'He gave/offered an interpretation...')
- Incorrect: 'The data is subject for interpretation.' (Correct: '...subject to interpretation.')
- Spelling: Incorrect 'interpritation' or 'interpretion'.
- Using 'interpretation' as a verb (the verb is 'interpret').
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'interpretation' LEAST likely to be used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Translation deals with converting words from one language to another. Interpretation is about explaining the *meaning* of something, which can be within the same language (e.g., interpreting a law, a dream, or a piece of art). In spoken language, 'interpreting' refers to oral translation.
Yes, 'interpretations' is common when referring to multiple, often differing, understandings of the same thing (e.g., 'There are several competing interpretations of the poem').
It is usually countable (an interpretation, different interpretations). It can be uncountable when referring to the general activity or process (e.g., 'The role requires skill in data interpretation').
It is a formal term in law for the process by which courts interpret and apply legislation. Judges use various rules and principles to determine the meaning and intent of a statute.
Collections
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