also: こうでん
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', transitive verb
oral instruction; word-of-mouth transmission
Refers to teaching or passing on knowledge by speaking, often in traditional arts, crafts, or martial arts. Can be used as a noun or with する to mean 'to instruct orally' or 'to pass on by word of mouth'.
師匠から弟子へ口伝で技を教える。
The master teaches techniques to the apprentice through oral instruction.
この秘
This secret tradition has been passed down only by word of mouth.
noun
Specifically refers to a body of knowledge, stories, or teachings preserved and transmitted orally across generations, often in cultural or religious contexts.
その村には古い口伝が残っている。
An old oral tradition remains in that village.