Interpret
in-TER-prit
/ɪnˈtɜːrprɪt/
To explain the meaning of (information, words, or actions); to translate orally.
In data analysis, 'interpret' means to explain the findings and implications of data, often after it has been analyzed and visualized, translating raw numbers into meaningful conclusions.
The story behind the word. The word 'interpret' comes from the Latin 'interpretari', meaning 'to explain, expound, understand'. This in turn comes from 'interpres', meaning 'agent, negotiator, translator'. The 'inter-' prefix means 'between', and 'pres' is thought to be related to 'pretium' (price, value), suggesting someone who 'sets the value between' or 'explains between' parties. It entered English in the late 14th century.
Word relationships
- Explain: To make something clear or understandable; 'interpret' often involves explaining meaning from a specific context or perspective.
- Elucidate: To make something clear; explain (often complex or obscure information).
- Decipher: To convert (a text written in code, or a message in a foreign language) into normal language; implies difficulty in understanding.
- Obscure: To make unclear and difficult to understand.
- Confuse: To make (something) unclear or difficult to understand.
Commonly confused with
- Analyze: To 'analyze' is to break down something into its components for examination. To 'interpret' is to explain the meaning or significance of those components or the overall analysis.
Word family
- interpretation (noun): the action of explaining the meaning of something; the way something is explained or understood.
- interpreter (noun): a person who translates orally or explains the meaning of something.
- misinterpret (verb): to interpret (something) wrongly.
Collocations
- interpret data
- interpret results
- interpret findings
- correctly interpret
- misinterpret
Example sentences
- "It is crucial to correctly interpret the experimental results to draw valid conclusions." In a scientific presentation.
- "The lawyers had to interpret the complex clauses of the contract." From a legal discussion.
- "A skilled interpreter helped the delegates from different countries understand each other." In a cultural exchange.
Memory hook
To 'INTERPRET' is to 'INTER-PRET' (between-explain), explaining the meaning between the data and the audience. Explain the meaning
When not to use
Do not use 'interpret' when you simply mean to 'read' or 'observe'. It implies an act of explanation or understanding beyond mere perception.
Fun facts
- The role of an 'interpreter' is distinct from a 'translator': an interpreter works with spoken language in real-time, while a translator works with written language.
- In music, 'interpretation' refers to a performer's unique understanding and rendition of a piece of music.
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