Interpret and Perform

Interpret

Interpret verb - To present a portrayal or performance of.
Usage example: interpreted the role of Fletcher Christian in a challengingly new way

Perform is a synonym for interpret in portray topic. In some cases you can use "Perform" instead a verb "Interpret", when it comes to topics like define.

Perform

Perform verb - To present a portrayal or performance of.
Usage example: has always dreamed of performing Hamlet on stage

Interpret is a synonym for perform. Sometimes you can use "Interpret" instead a verb "Perform".

Common collocations

work interpret work perform work
series interpret series perform series
way interpret way perform way
act interpret act perform act
Other words: actions, song, songs.

Both words in one sentence

  • School Play Ashley and future love interest Craig interpret it as sexist and perform it as an almost abusive piece; Ashley's ex Jimmy and cheerleader Hazel interpret it as a poppy sports-themed piece.
    Source: School Play
  • Mathematician's Answer They'll ask the class to instruct them to perform some mundane task, such as making a PB&J sandwich, and interpret the instructions as literally (and incorrectly) as possible.
  • Video Game / Edna & Harvey: Harvey’s New Eyes This is made explicit with the narrator's response when you have Lilli perform a very pointless action: He basically flat out says that he's been trying to interpret Lilli's actions, but that truthfully, no one knew what Lilli was doing, or why.
Cite this Source
Perform and Interpret. (2016). Retrieved 2026, August 14, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/interpret/perform
Interpret & Perform. N.p., 2016. Web. 14 Aug. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/interpret/perform>.
Perform or Interpret. 2016. Accessed August 14, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/interpret/perform.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "interpret" and "perform" have occurred on timeline