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v. con·strued, con·stru·ing, con·strues v.tr. 1. To understand or explain the meaning of (something), especially in a particular way; interpret: The waiter construed my smile as assent. The editorial construed the act as irresponsible. See Synonyms at explain. 2. Grammar a. To analyze the structure of (a clause or sentence). b. To use syntactically: The noun fish can be construed as singular or plural. 3. To translate, especially aloud. v.intr. 1. To analyze grammatical structure. 2. To be subject to grammatical analysis. n. (kŏnstr′) An interpretation or translation. con·strual n. |
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