ENGLISH
REFERENCE

interpret away

idiom
Meaning

To smooth out undesired concepts and teachings in a text, often one of fundamental importance to a religion or ideology, by interpreting that text contrary to its spirit or original meaning.


Examples
SIMPLE

They interpret away the strict rules to make them easier to follow.

CONTEXTUAL

When the ancient law became unpopular, the leaders tried to interpret away its original meaning to suit modern values.

COMPLEX

The scholars attempted to interpret away the most radical passages of the manifesto, hoping to reconcile the revolutionary text with their own moderate political agenda.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    away game

    An athletic contest played away from the team's home field.

  2. 02

    away with the fairies

    Not all there; slightly crazy.

  3. 03

    bang away

    to strike or hit repeatedly

  4. 04

    bear away the bell

    To be superior in something.

  5. 05

    beaver away

    To work hard at a task.

  6. 06

    blaze away

    To fire (firearms) repeatedly.

  7. 07

    blow away

    To kill (someone) by shooting them with a firearm.

  8. 08

    blow the cobwebs away

    To make changes for space for new fresh ideas

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