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"Decode" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "descifrar", and "decipher" is a transitive verb which is also often translated as "descifrar". Learn more about the difference between "decode" and "decipher" below.
decode(
di
-
kod
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
a. descifrar
During the war, she was employed in decoding enemy communications.Durante la guerra, trabajó descifrando los mensajes del enemigo.
2. (to convert)
a. descodificar
The television receiver decodes compressed video signals from satellites.El receptor de televisión descodifica las señales de video comprimidas que le llegan de los satélites.
decipher(
dih
-
say
-
fuhr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to decode)
a. descifrar
How long did it take you to decipher these runes?¿Cuánto tiempo tardó usted en descifrar estas runas?
2. (figurative) (to read)
A phrase used as a figure of speech or a word that is symbolic in meaning; metaphorical (e.g., carrot, bean).
a. descifrar
I'm afraid I can't decipher the doctor's handwriting.Lo siento pero no llego a decifrar la letra de la médica.
