admits of multiple interpretations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "admits of multiple interpretations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a statement, text, or situation that can be understood in different ways. Example: "The poem is rich in symbolism and admits of multiple interpretations, making it a favorite among literary critics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

For one thing, the counterfactual itself admits of multiple interpretations.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Moreover, the several illustrations and analogies in the chapter all admit of multiple interpretations, while the argumentative structure of the chapter, upon which one might rely to force one interpretation over another, is regrettably thin.

SEP

They are poems, capable of multiple interpretations.

The New Yorker

It deals with the evaluation of multiple interpretations of the past, with a focus on the concept of multivocality.

Springer

Feminist literary analysis, like other methods of reading works of literature, encourages multiple interpretations.

The New Yorker

Musical works in the Western classical tradition are multiple entities, in the sense that they admit of multiple instances (performances).

SEP

I have been enjoying Corelli's "Tosca" for years, but there is plenty of room for multiple interpretations.

The New York Times - Arts

Arguments abound as to the exact meaning of the painting, which, with its use of angles, reflections, and multiple interpretations, creates an unsettling relationship between viewer and subject.

The Guardian - Arts

And the two translations together are a helpful reminder that having multiple interpretations of a text serves readers better than one definitive — or "perfect" — translation ever could.

The New Yorker

Controversy has erupted from the sleepy third-floor hallway galleries at the New York Public Library, where a modest exhibition of contemporary prints called "Multiple Interpretations" is on view.

The New York Times - Arts

What's more, there ends up being multiple interpretations of the initial thought experiment.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "admits of multiple interpretations", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being interpreted and why multiple interpretations are possible. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While "admits of multiple interpretations" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual contexts. Consider using simpler alternatives like "can be interpreted in different ways" or "has multiple meanings" for everyday conversations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "admits of multiple interpretations" functions as a descriptor, indicating that a subject (e.g. a text, a situation, a concept) is open to various understandings. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. The examples show it used in contexts where ambiguity or complexity is present.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

27%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "admits of multiple interpretations" is a descriptor used to convey that a subject can be understood in various ways, reflecting potential ambiguity or complexity. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically sound and usable expression. Analysis reveals that this phrase is commonly used in academic, news, and encyclopedic contexts, implying a formal register. When writing, be mindful of overuse in casual settings, opting for simpler alternatives if appropriate. Understanding the nuances of the phrase and its alternatives, such as "is open to several interpretations" or "can be interpreted in different ways", enhances clarity and precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is open to several interpretations

Replaces "admits of" with "is open to" while keeping the core meaning intact.

allows for various interpretations

Substitutes "admits of" with "allows for" to express the possibility of different understandings.

can be interpreted in different ways

Focuses on the action of interpreting and the possibility of various approaches.

is susceptible to diverse readings

Emphasizes the vulnerability of the subject to different interpretations.

lends itself to varied understandings

Highlights the inherent quality of the subject that makes it suitable for diverse understandings.

permits a range of interpretations

Indicates that the subject allows for a spectrum of interpretations.

is subject to different interpretations

Highlights the fact that different people may understand the subject in different ways.

can have multiple meanings

Focuses on the possibility of multiple meanings rather than the act of interpretation.

is capable of various readings

Implies an inherent capacity for different interpretations.

accommodates different perspectives

Stresses that it has enough scope to have accommodate different angles/opinions.

FAQs

How can I use "admits of multiple interpretations" in a sentence?

You can use "admits of multiple interpretations" when referring to something that can be understood in more than one way. For example: "The poem is rich in symbolism and "admits of multiple interpretations".".

What can I say instead of "admits of multiple interpretations"?

Alternatives include "is open to several interpretations", "allows for various interpretations", or "can be interpreted in different ways", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "admits multiple interpretations" or "admits of multiple interpretations"?

"Admits of multiple interpretations" is the more idiomatic and grammatically correct phrasing. "Admits multiple interpretations" is less common and may sound awkward to native English speakers.

What is the difference between "admits of multiple interpretations" and "is subject to multiple interpretations"?

"Admits of multiple interpretations" suggests that something inherently allows for different understandings, while "is subject to multiple interpretations" implies that external factors might influence different understandings.