解(と)く

とく
godan verb, transitive
to solve, to untie, to explain
1. to solve
To find the answer to a problem.
問題(もんだい)を解(と)く。
To solve a problem.
謎(なぞ)を解(と)く。
To solve a mystery.
誤解(ごかい)を解(と)く。
To clear up a misunderstanding.
2. to untie, to undo
To loosen something that is tied.
紐(ひも)を解(と)く。
To untie a string.
髪(かみ)を解(と)く。
To undo one's hair.
荷物(にもつ)の包(つつ)みを解(と)いた。
I unwrapped the package.
3. to dismiss, to cancel
To release from an obligation.
禁(きん)を解(と)く。
To lift a ban.
任務(にんむ)を解(と)かれた。
I was relieved of my duties.
警戒(けいかい)が解(と)かれて、住民(じゅうみん)は安心(あんしん)した。
The alert was lifted, and the residents felt relieved.

解(と)く is a transitive godan verb meaning to solve, untie, or release.

TRANSITIVITY:

  • Type: 他動詞(たどうし) (transitive)
  • Takes を particle for the object

COMMON PATTERNS:

  • 問題(もんだい)を解(と)く: to solve a problem
  • 紐(ひも)を解(と)く: to untie a string
  • 誤解(ごかい)を解(と)く: to clear up a misunderstanding
  • 謎(なぞ)を解(と)く: to solve a mystery
  • 禁(きん)を解(と)く: to lift a ban

HOMOPHONE DISTINCTION:

Several verbs read とく use different kanji:

  • 解(と)く: to solve, untie
  • 溶(と)く: to dissolve (in liquid)
  • 説(と)く: to explain, persuade
  • 梳(と)く: to comb (hair)
general
Added 2026.1.9 17:17 · Revised 2026.2.22 11:30
02000/02301_toku