Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Interpret" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "interpret", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
解釈する
かいしゃくする (kaishaku suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
通訳する
つうやくする (tsūyaku suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "interpret" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 解釈する and 通訳する.
In Japanese, 解釈する (かいしゃくする (kaishaku suru)) is typically associated with "to interpret, to construe" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents To understand or explain the meaning of something, especially something ambiguous or complex..
On the other hand, 通訳する (つうやくする (tsūyaku suru)) maps to "to interpret (orally translate)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents This is a する-verb, meaning 'to interpret' or 'to translate orally'. It refers specifically to conveying spoken language between two languages, as opposed to written translation. A literal translation of "interpret" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "解釈する"
彼の言葉をどう解釈するかは、人によって異なるだろう。
How his words are interpreted will differ from person to person.
Bilingual Context for "通訳する"
会議で英語を日本語に通訳する仕事をしている。
I work interpreting English into Japanese at meetings.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の言葉をどう ＿＿＿ かは、人によって異なるだろう。" (Meaning: "How his words are interpreted will differ from person to person.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "解釈する" fits here because it means "to interpret, to construe" in the context of: "How his words are interpreted will differ from person to person.". "通訳する" represents "to interpret (orally translate)".