be interpreted

[/biː ˈɪntərprɪtɪd/]
verb phrase (passive voice)
ser interpretado(a)
1. to be understood or explained in a particular way; to have a meaning assigned to it
His comments can be interpreted as criticism.
Seus comentários podem ser interpretados como crítica.
2. to be performed or presented by an actor, musician, or artist
The song was beautifully interpreted by the soprano.
A música foi belamente interpretada pela soprano.
3. to have one's words or actions understood in a specific context
Her silence could be interpreted as agreement.
Seu silêncio poderia ser interpretado como concordância.
This phrase is commonly used in both American and Brazilian contexts when discussing art, literature, communication, and human interaction. In Brazilian Portuguese, it frequently appears in academic discourse, theater, and music criticism. The passive construction emphasizes the act of understanding or reception rather than the actor performing the interpretation.
NYC Slang
be read (informal colloquial meaning 'be understood a certain way')
Synonyms / Sinônimos
be understoodbe explainedbe construedbe read
Antonyms / Antônimos
be misunderstoodbe ignored

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ser interpretado(a)
standard usage in formal and informal contexts
Rio de Janeiro
ser interpretado(a)
common in artistic and cultural discussions
São Paulo
ser interpretado(a)
widely used in business and academic settings
Portugal
ser interpretado(a)
identical usage, standard European Portuguese

Related Words

interpretinterpretationinterpreterconstrue

Related Idioms & Phrases

be open to interpretation
be subject to interpretation
be lost in translation
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