Which term describes language that functions to explain or interpret meaning rather than to perform or present?

• A. Presentational
• B. Grammar-based
• C. Interpretive
• D. Communication-based

Answer: (C)

Interpretable or interpretive language is used to explain or interpret meaning rather than to present or perform. When you’re analyzing a text, clarifying ideas, or explaining why a metaphor works, you’re using interpretive language to make sense of meaning. This contrasts with presentational language, which aims to present information or perform content for an audience—like delivering a speech or recounting events. Grammar-based focuses on form, not function, and communication-based is too broad to capture the specific aim of explaining meaning. So the term that best fits a function of explaining or interpreting is interpretive.