read

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العربية الفصحى
Arabic (Standard)
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/riːd/; past /red/
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To understand written words or symbols, say them aloud, interpret information, or describe a written work one reads.
Practice using read in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • This novel is a good read.
  • She reads the news every morning.
  • I can read this book.
  • The nurse read the thermometer.
  • He learned to read at school.

Similar words

interpret
article
measure
recite
decipher
book

Meanings

Understand writing

verb
reading
neutral
To look at written words or symbols and understand their meaning.

Examples

  • I can read this book.
  • She reads the news every morning.
  • Can you read the sign from here?
  • He learned to read at school.
  • Please read the instructions first.

Similar words

decipher

Say written words aloud

verb
speech
neutral
To speak the words of a written text so others can hear them.

Examples

  • Dad read us a story.
  • She reads poems aloud.
  • Please read the question to the class.
  • He read the letter in a quiet voice.
  • I will read the names one by one.

Similar words

recite

Interpret or obtain information

verb
interpretation
neutral
To understand what a situation, instrument, or other sign shows or means.

Examples

  • The nurse read the thermometer.
  • I read her silence as agreement.
  • The meter reads zero.
  • He can read a map well.
  • The notice read “Closed.”

Similar words

interpret
measure

Something to read

noun
books
informal
A book, article, or other piece of writing considered as reading material or for its quality.

Examples

  • This novel is a good read.
  • The article is a quick read.
  • I need a light read for the train.
  • That biography was a fascinating read.
  • Here is an interesting read about birds.

Similar words

book
article

Etymology

From Old English rædan, which included advising, interpreting, and understanding writing.

FAQ

What does read usually mean?

To look at writing and understand it.

How is the past tense spelled?

It is also spelled read, but pronounced /red/.

Can read mean speaking a text?

Yes: you can read a story aloud.

What does “the meter reads zero” mean?

It displays a measurement of zero.

What is “a good read”?

An enjoyable book or other written piece.

Comments & contributions

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