Translation guide
The English verb 'interpret' covers several distinct meanings: explaining meaning, translating orally, understanding in a particular way, and performing artistically. Japanese uses different words for each.
To clarify or explain the meaning of words, actions, dreams, etc.
General term for interpreting meaning, such as texts, laws, or actions. Often used in academic or analytical contexts.
この詩をどう解釈しますか。
How do you interpret this poem?
Literally 'take the meaning'. Used for grasping the meaning of something said or written, often in everyday conversation.
彼の言葉の意味を取るのが難しかった。
It was hard to interpret his words.
To read and decipher, often used for complex texts, codes, or situations. Implies careful analysis.
暗号を読み解く。
Interpret a code.
To listen to someone speaking one language and repeat it in another language in real time.
The standard verb for oral interpretation between languages. Not used for written translation.
会議で英語を日本語に通訳した。
I interpreted English into Japanese at the meeting.
To construe or take something in a certain manner, often subjective.
To take or receive words/actions in a certain way. Commonly used for personal interpretation of remarks or gestures.
彼の沈黙を承諾と受け取った。
I interpreted his silence as consent.
To perceive or grasp something in a particular way. Slightly more formal than 受け取る.
To regard or consider as. Often used when interpreting something as equivalent to something else.
To perform a piece of music, a role in a play, etc., in a way that shows your own ideas about it.
Used for interpreting music. Implies a personal artistic rendition.
彼はその曲を独自のスタイルで演奏した。
He interpreted the piece in his own style.
Used for interpreting a role in a play or film. Focuses on the actor's portrayal.
彼女はハムレットを独自に演じた。
She interpreted Hamlet in her own way.
解釈する is for explaining meaning (text, actions, dreams), while 通訳する is specifically for oral language interpretation. Do not use 通訳する for interpreting a poem or a law.
The English 'interpret' cannot be directly translated by a single Japanese word in all contexts. Using 解釈する for oral translation or 通訳する for understanding a poem will sound unnatural.
その発言を批判と捉えた。
I interpreted the remark as criticism.
I interpreted his actions as a refusal.