Interpreting meaning in context

The idea

Use interpret with the thing being understood. Use interpret something as to name the meaning you give it.

Examples

• The nurse interpreted the reading as a sign of improvement.
• Different readers may interpret the poem differently.
• We should interpret the survey results in context.
• Maya interpreted his silence as agreement.
• The guide helped us interpret the symbols on the map.
• The committee interpreted the remark as a request for help.

Watch out

Avoid interpret something like a warning when you mean that you see it as a warning; use as.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct answer. They interpreted the gesture ___ a warning. (as / for)

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   as

   as introduces the meaning assigned to the gesture.

2. Choose the correct answer. The analyst will ___ the data tomorrow. (interpret / interprets)

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   interpret

   interpret follows will in the base form.

3. Choose the correct answer. We ___ the message differently yesterday. (interpreted / interpret)

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   interpreted

   interpreted marks the completed action yesterday.

Use it today

Describe a sign or remark that people might interpret differently.