construe
Definitions
To interpret or understand a statement or action in a particular way
解释，理解（以某种方式看待言行）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedcon- (together) + struere (build/arrange) = originally "to arrange the words of a sentence in order so as to parse it" — to build its meaning. It entered English through grammar lessons and now means to interpret: to construct a meaning from what someone said or did.
Root struct still carries 18 more wordsUsage Guide
Almost always passive and followed by "as": be construed as something. Note it is NOT the same as construct — construe is to interpret, construct is to build. They share the root but split in meaning.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Her silence was construed as agreement.
- 2.
Don't construe my advice as criticism.
Easily Confused
construe vs construct — same root struere, but construe = interpret (build a meaning) and construct = build a thing/argument. "Construe his words" = read meaning into them; "construct an argument" = assemble one.