Translation guide
The English word "interpretation" covers several distinct meanings. This guide organizes them by intent, from explaining meaning and translating to performing art and analyzing data.
To explain or understand the meaning of something, such as a text, law, or dream.
The most common and general word for interpretation of meaning, texts, laws, or situations. Neutral and widely used.
この法律の解釈は難しい。
The interpretation of this law is difficult.
彼の言葉はいろいろな解釈ができる。
His words can be interpreted in many ways.
Focuses on assigning meaning or significance, often in analysis or criticism.
この出来事に新しい意味付けをする。
We give a new interpretation to this event.
Literally 'reading and unraveling'; used for deep interpretation of complex texts, literature, or codes.
古典文学の読み解きは根気がいる。
Interpreting classical literature requires patience.
To translate spoken words from one language to another in real time.
The standard term for oral interpretation/translation. Can be used as a noun or verb (する).
会議で通訳を頼まれた。
I was asked to interpret at the meeting.
彼女は英語と日本語の通訳ができる。
She can interpret between English and Japanese.
To perform a role, piece of music, or dance in a way that expresses one's own understanding of it.
Used specifically for musical performance/interpretation.
彼のピアノの演奏は独特の解釈がある。
His piano performance has a unique interpretation.
Acting performance; can imply interpretation of a role.
Direction or staging of a play/film; often involves interpretation of the work.
Can be used broadly for artistic interpretation, often combined with specific art form words.
To analyze and explain the meaning of data, results, or findings.
General term for analysis; often used where English would say 'interpretation of data'.
データの分析結果を報告する。
We report the interpretation of the data.
Also used for interpreting data, especially when subjective judgment is involved.
Literally 'reading and taking'; used for interpreting data from instruments, sensors, or subtle signals.
解釈 (kaishaku) is about understanding meaning; 通訳 (tsūyaku) is oral translation; 翻訳 (hon'yaku) is written translation. Do not confuse them.
彼は通訳者ではなく、翻訳者だ。
He is a translator (written), not an interpreter (oral).
In artistic contexts, 解釈 is often too abstract. Use specific words like 演奏 (music) or 演技 (acting) and add 解釈 only when emphasizing a unique take.
Simultaneous interpretation, as done in booths at conferences.
同時通訳の訓練を受けている。
I am training in simultaneous interpretation.
Consecutive interpretation, where the speaker pauses for translation.
逐次通訳はメモ取りが重要だ。
Note-taking is important in consecutive interpretation.
Her performance of Hamlet was a new interpretation.
この劇の演出は現代的解釈を取り入れている。
The staging of this play incorporates a modern interpretation.
この曲の解釈は演奏者によって異なる。
The interpretation of this piece differs depending on the performer.
統計の解釈には注意が必要だ。
Care is needed in the interpretation of statistics.
センサーの値を正しく読み取る。
Correctly interpret the sensor readings.