説

• Reading: せつ
• Romaji: setsu
• Kanji breakdown: 説 (setsu) — theory, explain, persuade
• Pronunciation: /se.tsɯ/

Meaning

Theory; hypothesis; opinion; explanation.

A noun and suffix used to describe an idea, theory, or school of thought. Commonly appears in compounds: 小説 (novel, literally 'small theory'), 伝説 (legend), 仮説 (hypothesis), 学説 (academic theory). As a standalone word, it means a particular view or theory about something.

Examples

1. その説にはまだ証拠が足りない。 That theory still lacks sufficient evidence.
2. 新しい説が発表されて注目を集めた。 A new theory was published and attracted a lot of attention.
3. いろいろな説があるが正解はわからない。 There are various theories, but no one knows the correct answer.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, news, discussion

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 説 combines 言 (speech, words) and 兌 (to exchange, to please). Originally meant 'to explain or persuade with words,' later extending to mean a theory or opinion put forward.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal