What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
interpret
Example
The teacher asked the students to interpret the poem and explain its underlying message. [interpret: verb]
Example
The interpreter translated the speaker's words from Spanish to English for the audience. [interpreter: noun]
Example
I interpret the painting as a representation of the artist's inner turmoil. [interpret: verb]
translate
Example
She translated the French novel into English for her book club. [translate: verb]
Example
The phrase 'je ne sais quoi' translates to 'I don't know what' in English. [translates: verb]
Example
The software can translate PDF files into editable Word documents. [translate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Translate is more commonly used than interpret in everyday language, especially in the context of language learning and cross-cultural communication. Interpret is more specialized and often used in specific fields such as law, music, or art.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between interpret and translate?
Both interpret and translate can be used in formal and informal contexts, but interpret may be more associated with specialized or technical language and therefore more formal in certain contexts.
