interpretar (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

• Verb

Phonetic Transcription

• /in.teɾ.pɾeˈtaɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To interpret
• To explain
• To translate
• To construe

Meaning and Usage

The verb "interpretar" primarily means to explain or provide an understanding of something, particularly in contexts involving language translation or analysis. It can refer to interpreting spoken or signed language, as well as rendering artistic performances or literary texts. The frequency of use varies depending on context but is generally common in both oral and written forms. It is especially prevalent in legal, military, and cultural conversations where clarification or translation is needed.

Example Sentences: 1. Es importante interpretar correctamente las leyes para evitar malentendidos.
It is important to interpret the laws correctly to avoid misunderstandings.

1. El traductor debe interpretar el discurso del orador en tiempo real.
   The translator must interpret the speaker's speech in real time.

2. El crítico de arte puede interpretar las intenciones del artista detrás de la obra.
   The art critic can interpret the artist's intentions behind the work.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Interpretar" is often used in several idiomatic expressions, particularly in cultural and artistic contexts, reflecting its versatility. Here are a few idiomatic usages:

1. Interpretar entre líneas
   To interpret between the lines
   (Meaning: To understand the underlying meaning of something.)

2. Es difícil interpretar entre líneas cuando el texto es tan ambiguo.
   It is difficult to interpret between the lines when the text is so ambiguous.

3. Interpretar un papel
   To interpret a role
   (Meaning: To play a part in a performance, whether in film, theater, or other forms of media.)

4. El actor tuvo que interpretar un papel muy complejo en la película.
   The actor had to interpret a very complex role in the movie.

5. Interpretar los hechos
   To interpret the facts
   (Meaning: To offer a perspective or explanation based on factual information.)

6. Es fácil interpretar los hechos de una manera que favorezca a uno u otro lado.
   It’s easy to interpret the facts in a way that favors one side or the other.

7. Interpretar a la letra
   To interpret to the letter
   (Meaning: To take something very literally.)

8. No hay que interpretar a la letra las instrucciones, son solo una guía.
   You shouldn't interpret the instructions to the letter; they are just a guideline.

Etymology

"Interpretar" originates from the Latin word "interpretari," which also means "to explain" or "to translate." The roots of the term can be traced back to the prefix "inter-" (between) and "pretare" (to offer), implying a mediation of understanding or explanation between parties.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Traducir (to translate) - Explicar (to explain) - Describir (to describe)

Antonyms: - Confundir (to confuse) - Ocultar (to hide) - Enmascarar (to mask)