interpretation
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interpretation
The interpretation or explanation of something whose sense or meaning is not immediately obvious, such as a dream, a work of art, or unclear behavior.
Die Deutung moderner Kunstwerke fällt vielen Menschen schwer.
Many people find the interpretation of modern artworks difficult.
The noun 'die Deutung' (interpretation) comes from the verb 'deuten' (to interpret/point). The ending '-ung' is a typical method in German for forming a noun from a verb that describes the action or the result of that action.
Er deutete auf die Tür, aber ich verstand seine Deutung der Geste nicht.
He pointed to the door, but I did not understand his interpretation of the gesture.
To express what is being interpreted, you often use the genitive or the preposition 'von' (of/from) with the dative. The genitive is the more formal variant.
Die Deutung des Gedichts ist umstritten.
The interpretation of the poem is controversial.
In the sense of 'interpretation', 'Deutung' (interpretation) is often used for complex or symbolic things. Typical combinations are the interpretation of dreams, symbols, poems, or works of art.
In der Psychologie spielt die Deutung von Träumen eine große Rolle.
In psychology, the interpretation of dreams plays a major role.
When referring to a specific explanation, 'Deutung' (interpretation) is often combined with adjectives like 'historisch' (historical), 'wissenschaftlich' (scientific), or 'möglich' (possible). A situation can also 'mehrere Deutungen zulassen' (allow several interpretations).
Dieses Verhalten lässt verschiedene Deutungen zu.
This behavior allows for different interpretations.
meaning / sense
'der Sinn' and 'die Deutung' both have to do with meaning. 'Sinn' more often means the meaning, purpose, or intention of something. For example, you might ask about the purpose of a rule or an action. 'Deutung' is used when someone explains or interprets something unclear, such as an image, a dream, or behavior. Learners may confuse the words because both can answer the question 'What does this mean?' In practice: the 'Sinn' can lie within something; the 'Deutung' usually comes from a person.
Die Deutung des Traums war für Anna überraschend.
The interpretation of the dream was surprising for Anna.
Ich verstehe den Sinn dieser Regel nicht.
I do not understand the purpose of this rule.