What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decipher
Example
It took me a while to decipher the ancient script on the tablet. [decipher: verb]
Example
I couldn't decipher the meaning of the cryptic message. [decipher: verb]
Example
The linguist was able to decipher the ancient manuscript. [decipher: verb]
interpret
Example
Can you interpret what the speaker meant by that statement? [interpret: verb]
Example
The interpreter translated the speech from Spanish to English. [interpreter: noun]
Example
The analyst interpreted the data to identify trends and patterns. [interpreted: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Interpret is more commonly used than decipher in everyday language. Interpret is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while decipher is less common and refers to a more specialized skill.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decipher and interpret?
Both decipher and interpret can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, decipher may have a more technical and specialized connotation, making it more appropriate for formal or academic writing.
