Inklingo

How to Say "interpretation" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “interpretation” is “interpretación” — use 'interpretación' when referring to how something is understood or explained, or for the professional act of translating speech..

English → Spanish

interpretación

nounB1general
Use 'interpretación' when referring to how something is understood or explained, or for the professional act of translating speech.

Examples

Tu interpretación de la película fue muy perspicaz.

Your interpretation of the movie was very insightful.

interpretación

nounC1professional
Use 'interpretación' for the professional service of translating spoken language in real-time.

Examples

Necesitamos un servicio de interpretación para la conferencia internacional.

We need an interpreting service for the international conference.

lectura

/lek-TOO-ra//lekˈtuɾa/

nounB2general
Use 'lectura' when referring to the analysis or reading of data, a situation, or a measurement.
A simple, round instrument dial with a thick black needle pointing firmly toward the top of a red zone, indicating a measured reading.

Examples

La lectura del medidor de gas indica un consumo elevado.

The reading of the gas meter indicates high consumption.

La lectura del termómetro era anormalmente baja.

The thermometer reading was abnormally low.

El director hizo una lectura optimista de los resultados.

The director made an optimistic interpretation of the results.

Abstract Usage

When used abstractly (like 'interpretation'), it always works with the preposition 'de' (of) to link it to the object being analyzed: 'lectura DE la situación'.

Interpretación vs. Lectura

The most common mistake is using 'lectura' when you mean the general understanding or explanation of something. Remember, 'lectura' is primarily for analyzing data or situations, while 'interpretación' covers understanding, explanation, and professional translation.

Related Translations

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