construe Hear it!

construe Definition

con·strue (kən stro̵̅o̅′)

transitive verb -·strued′, -·stru′·ing

  1. to analyze (a sentence, clause, etc.) so as to show its syntactic construction and its meaning
  2. loosely to translate (a passage) orally
  3. to explain or deduce the meaning of; interpret her silence was construed as agreement
  4. to infer or deduce
  5. Gram. to combine in syntax the verb “let,” unlike “permit,” is construed with an infinitive omitting the “to”

Etymology: ME construen < L construere: see construct

intransitive verb

  1. to analyze sentence structure, esp. in translating
  2. to be able to be construed, as a sentence

construe Synonyms

construe

v.

explain, define, infer, decipher; see explain, infer 1, interpret 1. See syn. study at explain.

construe Law Definition

v

To analyze, explain, interpret. See also construction.

construe Usage Examples

Object

  • clause: There are a number of background matters which Mr McLaren invited me to take into account in construing the waiver clause.
  • experiment: Em the most of the diamond-star construed experiments led.
  • provision: It is appropriate to narrowly construe a provision which sets the limits of criminal liability.

Preposition: as

  • waiver: Failure by Sophos to enforce these terms and conditions shall not be construed as a waiver of any of its rights under it.
  • reference: In such a case, the date so given can properly be construed as a reference to the true date.
  • endorsement: The links should not be construed as endorsements of any products or services offered in such sites.
  • advice: Any opinions expressed are personal and should not be construed as medical advice.
  • attempt: Not one of these statements could even remotely be construed as an attempt to interfere with free speech.

Modifying Another Word

  • accordingly: The expression " agreement " shall be construed accordingly.
  • narrowly: It is appropriate to narrowly construe a provision which sets the limits of criminal liability.
  • broadly: All three authors stand within the evangelical tradition, somewhat broadly construed.
  • strictly: Regulations which impose criminal liability have to be construed strictly.
  • differently: Back 5 The Communication has, however, been differently construed.
  • exclusively: Applicable Law These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by, and construed exclusively in accordance with, English law.

Infinitive complement

  • extend: But I am in no doubt that in such exceptional cases section 22 can in modern times be construed to extend that far.
  • mean: This could be construed to mean simply an end to Muslim support for terrorism.

Present participle complement

accord: The terms shall be governed by and construed according to the laws of England and Wales.

Preposition: in

  • accordance: These Terms of Use shall be construed in accordance with the laws of England.
  • respect: This Agreement shall be construed in all respects in accordance with the laws of the United Kingdom.
  • manner: For the reasons above stated we do not agree that it is to be construed in the manner for which the Appellant contends.