Quick answer
説 is the kanji for "Theory". A common reading is と.く (toku). You can also practice writing it on this page.
Meaning
Theory
Also : Rumor · Opinion · Explanation
Learn 説 with SRS
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Readings
kun = Japanese reading · on = Chinese reading
Practice writing
Trace the kanji stroke by stroke with a visual guide.
Stroke Order
14 strokes
Radicals
Memory Aid
The kanji 説 represents 'OPINION'. Think of this shape as a picture representing the concept of opinion.
On-reading: せつ — remember this sound by associating it with opinion. Kun-reading: と.く.
Example Sentences
自分の説を証明しました。
じぶんのせつをしょうめいしました。
I proved my theory.
詳しく説明してもらいました。
くわしくせつめいしてもらいました。
I was given a detailed explanation.
Vocabulary using 説
Grammar to study at this level
- [Verb dictionary/nai form] + ように～ように (you ni) - So that
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことにする～ことにする (koto ni suru) - Decide to
- [Verb dictionary form] + ことになる～ことになる (koto ni naru) - It has been decided that
- [Noun/Verb te-form] + ばかり～ばかり (bakari) - Only / Nothing but
- [Verb/Adjective plain form] + はずだ～はずだ (hazu da) - Should be / It is expected
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
Learn 説 with Spaced Repetition
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