# interpretive

/ˌɪnˈtɝpɹətɪv/ (US) · /ɪntˈɜːpɹɪtˌɪv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/interpretive
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

related to explaining or showing the meaning of something. You use this to describe things like art, dance, or signs that help people understand a topic.

For teachers: relating to or providing an interpretation; serving to explain or clarify the meaning of a text, performance, or data set.

## Examples

- The museum has many interpretive signs to explain the history.
- The dancer performed an interpretive piece that represented the changing of the seasons through fluid movements.
- Scholars often disagree on the interpretive framework used to analyze these ancient texts, as different cultural lenses can lead to vastly different conclusions.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; often found in academic or artistic contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.