What is the difference between explainability and interpretability, and how do you explain a model's decision?

Regulators and enterprises increasingly demand explanations for AI decisions, and the two terms get used loosely. The signal is separating inherently interpretable models from post-hoc explanations and naming the right technique for the stakes.

Updated Aug 2026 · Grounded in real Applied AI Engineer interview loops and written to a senior-engineer editorial bar.