Umdeutung

Umdeutung is a German noun meaning reinterpretation or reframing. It denotes the act of assigning a different meaning, significance, or value to something than its previous interpretation. The word combines um-, indicating change or reversal, with Deutung, interpretation.

In philosophy, Umdeutung signifies a critical rethinking of established norms or assumptions, often to challenge moral or metaphysical authorities. The term is closely associated with the idea of re-evaluating concepts and values that structure thought and culture. The frequently cited Nietzschean phrase Umwertung aller Werte (revaluation of all values) highlights a radical reassessment of moral hierarchies and cultural frameworks.

In psychology and psychotherapy, Umdeutung describes a technique of reframing experiences, symptoms, or beliefs to alter their emotional impact. It aligns with the broader notion of cognitive reframing, used to change interpretation rather than the external event.

In linguistics and media studies, Umdeutung can refer to the reinterpretation of signs, utterances, or narratives to influence perception or to challenge dominant meanings. It is often discussed in the context of framing and discourse analysis.

In legal and argumentative contexts, Umdeutung may involve reinterpretation of statements, contracts, or evidence to yield an alternative meaning within legal reasoning or rhetoric. The term emphasizes intentional re-interpretation as a means of analysis or persuasion.

Related terms include Umwertung (revaluation) and umdeuten (to reinterpret). The usage of Umdeutung spans philosophy, psychology, linguistics, media studies, and law, where it denotes deliberate shifts in meaning rather than mere misinterpretation.