What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decode
Example
I need to decode this message to understand what it means. [decode: verb]
Example
The detective was able to decode the hidden message in the suspect's letter. [decode: verb]
interpret
Example
Can you interpret this dream I had last night? [interpret: verb]
Example
The translator interpreted the speech from Spanish to English. [interpret: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Interpret is more commonly used than decode in everyday language and various fields, while decode is more specialized and less common.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between decode and interpret?
Decode is typically associated with a technical or scientific tone, while interpret can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be more versatile in terms of formality.