Terminology
AGE UKE
Upward Block.
AGE ZUKI
Rising Punch.
AIUCHI
Simultaneous Striking Techniques.
ASHI BARAI
Foot Sweep.
ASHI WAZA
Name given to all leg and foot techniques..
ATEMI WAZA
Striking techniques that are normally used in conjunction with grappling and throwing techniques.
AWASE ZUKI
U Punch. Also referred to as MOROTE ZUKI.
BO
Staff. A long stick used as a weapon (approximately 6 feet long).
BUDO
Martial way. The Japanese character for "BU" (martial) is derived from characters meaning "stop" and (a weapon like a) "halberd." In conjunction, then, "BU" may have the connotation "to stop the halberd." In Karate, there is an assumption that the best way to prevent violent conflict is to emphasize the cultivation of individual character. The way (DO) of Karate is thus equivalent to the way of BU, taken in this sense of preventing or avoiding violence so far as possible.
BUNKAI
A study of the techniques and applications in KATA.
CHUDAN
Mid-section. During the practice of KIHON IPPON KUMITE (one step basic sparring), the attacker will normally announce where he/she will attack JODAN, CHUDAN, or GEDAN (Upper level, Mid-level, or lower level).
CHUDAN ZUKI
A punch to the mid-section of the opponent's body.
COUNTING TO 10 IN JAPANESE
Ichi
Ni
San
Shi
Go
Roku
Shichi
Hachi
Kyu or Ku
Ju
DANI
Lever, Rank or Degree. Black Belt rank. Ranks under Black Belt are called KYU ranks.
DO
Way/path. The Japanese character for "DO" is the same as the Chinese character for Tao (as in "Taoism"). In Karate, the connotation is that of a way of attaining enlightenment or a way of improving one's character through traditional training.
DOJO
Literally "place of the Way." Also "place of enlightenment." The place where we practice Karate. Traditional etiquette prescribes bowing in the direction of the designated front of the dojo (SHOMEN) whenever entering or leaving the dojo.
DOMO ARIGATO GOZAIMASHITA
Japanese for "thank you very much." At the end of each class, it is proper to bow and thank the instructor and those with whom you've trained.
EKKU
A Wooden oar used by the Okinawans which was imporovised as a weapon.
EMBUSEN
Floor pattern of a given kata.
EMPI
(1) One the Black Belt level KATA, translated as "The Flight of a Sparrow".
(2) Elbow. Sometimes referred to as HIJI.
EMPI UCHI
elbow strike (also called HIJI-ATE)
FUDO DACHI
Immovable Stance. Also referred to as SOCHIN DACHI.
FUMIKOMI
Stomp kick, usually applied to the knee, shin, or instep of an opponent.
GANKAKU DACHI
Crane Stance, sometimes referred to as TSURU ASHI DACHI and SAGI ASHI DACHI.
GASSHUKUA
special training camp.
GEDAN
Lower section. During the practice of KIHON IPPON KUMITE (one step basic sparring), the attacker will normally announce where he/she will attack JODAN, CHUDAN, or GEDAN (Upper level, Mid-level, or lower level).
GEDAN BARAI
Downward Block.
GEDAN UDE UKE
Low Forearm Block.
GEDAN ZUKI
A punch to the lower section of the opponent's body.
GI (DO GI) (KEIKO GI) (KARATE GI)
Training costume. In JKR and in most other traditional Japanese and Okinawan Karate Dojo, the GI must be white and cotton (Synthetics with Cotton allowed). The only markings allowed are the JKR patch on the left breast area and the person's name at the front bottom corner of the jacket.
GO NO SEN
The tactic where one allows the opponent to attack first so to open up targets for counteracttack.
GOHON KUMITE
Five step basic sparring. The attacker steps in five consecutive times with a striking technique with each step. The defender steps back five times, blocking each technique. After the fifth block, the defender executes a counter-strike.
GYAKU MAWASHI GERI
Reverse Round-house Kick.
GYAKU ZUKI
Reverse Punch.
HACHIJI DACHI
A natural stance, feet positioned about one shoulder width apart, with feet pointed slightly outward.
HAI
"Yes".
HAITO UCHI
Ridge-hand Strike.
HAJIME
"Begin". A command given to start a given drill, Kata, or Kumite.
HANGETSU
A Black Belt level Kata.
HANGETSU DACHI
"Half-Moon" Stance.
HANSHI
"Master." An honorary title given to the highest Black Belt of an organization, signifying their understanding of their art. In Japan Karate-Do Ryobu-Kai, the Hanshi is the Grandmaster of Ryobu-Kai, Yasuhiro Konishi II.
HARAI TE
Sweeping technique with the arm.
HARAI WAZA
Sweeping techniques.
HEIKO DACHI
A natural stance. Feet positioned about one shoulder width apart, with feet pointed straight forward. Some Kata begin from this position.
HEIKO ZUKI
"Parallel Punch" (A double, simultaneous punch).
HEISOKU DACHI
An informal attention stance. Feet are together and pointed straight forward.
HIDARI
"Left".
HIJI
"Elbow", also known as Empi.
HIJI ATEMI
Elbow Strikes.
HIJI UKE
A blocking action using the elbow.
HIJI-ATE
elbow strike (also called EMPI-UCHI)
HIKI-TE
The retracting (pulling and twisting) arm during a technique. It gives the balance of power to the forward moving technique. It can also be used as a pulling technique after a grab, or a strike backward with the elbow.
HIZA GERI
Knee Kick.
HIZA UKE
A blocking action using the knee.
HOMBU DOJO
A term used to refer to the central dojo of an organization.
HORAN NO KAMAE
"Egg in the Nest Ready Position." A "ready" position used in some KATA where the fist in covered by the other hand.
INASU
evasion of an on-coming attack through the course of removing the body from the line of attack.
IPPON KEN
"One Knuckle Fist".
IPPON KUMITE
One step sparring.
IPPON NUKITE
A stabbing action using the extended index finger.
IRIMI
to penetrate, to enter. Usually describes moving closer to the opponent than the attack as you close in defense.
JIYU IPPON KUMITE
One step free sparring. The participants can attack with any technique whenever ready.
JIYU KUMITE
Free Sparring.
JO
Wooden staff about 4'-5' in length. The JO originated as a walking stick.
JODAN
Upper level. During the practice of KIHON IPPON KUMITE (one step basic sparring), the attacker will normally announce where he/she will attack JODAN, CHUDAN, or GEDAN (Upper level, Mid-level, or lower level).
JUJI UKE
X Block.
KAGI ZUKI
Hook Punch.
KAISHO
Open hand. This refers to the type of blow which is delivered with the open palm. It can also be used to describe other hand blows in which the fist is not fully clenched.
KAKE-TE
Hook Block.
KAKIWAKE
A two handed block using the outer surface of the wrist to neutralize a two-handed attack, such as a grab.
KAKUSHI WAZA
"Hidden techniques."
KAKUTO UCHI
Wrist joint strike. Also known as "KO UCHI."
KAKUTO UKE
Wrist Joint Block. Also known as KO UKE.
KAMAE
A posture or stance either with or without a weapon. KAMAE may also connote proper distance (Ma-ai) with respect to one's partner. Although "KAMAE" generally refers to a physical stance, there is an important prallel in Karate between one's physical and one's psychological bearing. Adopting a strong physical stance helps to promote the correlative adoption of a strong psychological attitude. It is important to try so far as possible to maintain a positive and strong mental bearing in Karate.
KAMAE-TE
A command given by the instructor for students to get into position.
KARATE
"Empty Hand". When Karate was first introduced to Japan, it was called "TO-DE". The characters of TODE could be pronounced. However, the meaning of TODE is Chinese Hand.
KARATE-DO
"The Way of Karate". This implies not only the physical aspect of Karate, but also the mental and social aspects of Karate.
KARATEKA
A practitioner of Karate.
KATA
A "form" or prescribed pattern of movement. (But also "shoulder.")
KEAGE
Snap Kick. (Literally, Kick upward).
KEIKO
(1) Training. The only secret to success in Karate.
(2) Joined Fingertips.
KEKOMI
Thrust Kick ( Literally, Kick Into/Straight ).
KEMPO
"Fist Law." A generic term to describe fighting systems that uses the fist. In this regard, KARATE is also KEMPO.
KENSEI
The technique with silent KIAI. Related to meditation.
KENTSUI
Hammer Fist Also known as TETTSUI.
KENTSUI UCHI (Or TETTSUI UCHI)
Hammer Fist Stike.
KERI
Kick.
KI
Mind. Spirit. Energy. Vital-force. Intention. (Chinese "chi") The definitions presented here are very general. KI is one word that cannot be translated directly into any language.
KI-O-TSUKE
"Attention". Musubi Dachi with open hands down both sides.
KIAI
A shout delivered for the purpose of focusing all of one's energy into a single movement. Even when audible KIAI are absent, one should try to preserve the feeling of KIAI at certain crucial points within Karate techniques. Manifestation of KI (simultaneous union of spirit and expression of physical strength).
KIBA DACHI
Staddle Stance. Also known as NAIFANCHI or NAIHANCHI DACHI.
KIHON
(Something which is) fundamental. Basic techniques.
KIME
Focus of Power.
KIZAMI ZUKI
Jab Punch.
KOHAI
A student junior to oneself.
KOKORO
"Spirit, Heart." In Japanese culture, the spirit dwells in the Heart.
KOKUTSU DACHI
A stance which has most of the weight to the back. Referred to in English as Back Stance.
KOSA DACHI
Crossed-Leg Stance.
KOSHIN
Rearward.
KYOSHI
"knowledgeable person," and usually this title is conferred at rokudan or shichidan, depending on system. I think the most common practice in the large organizations is for this to be at shichidan (7th dan).
KYU
"Grade". Any rank below Shodan.
KYUSHO WAZA
Pressure Point techniques.
MA-AI
Proper distancing or timing with respect to one's partner. Since Karate techniques always vary according to circumstances, it is important to understand how differences in initial position affect the timing and application of techniques.
MAAI GA TOH
"not proper distance"
MAE
Front.
MAE ASHI GERI
Kicking with the front leg.
MAE EMPI
Forward Elbow Strike.
MAE GERI KEAGE
Front Snap Kick. Also referred to as MAE KEAGE.
MAE GERI KEKOMI
Front Thrust Kick. Also referred to as MAE KEKOMI.
MAE UKEMI
forward fall/roll.
MAKOTO
A feeling of absolute sincerity and total frankness, which requires a pure mind, free from pressure of events.
MANABU
"Learning by imitating." A method of studying movement and techniques by following and imitating the instructor.
MANJI UKE
A Double block where one arm executes GEDAN BARAI to one side, while the other arm executes JODAN UCHI UKE (or JODAN SOTO YOKO TE).
MAWASHI EMPI UCHI
Circular Elbow Strike. Also referred to as MAWASHI HIJI ATE.
MAWASHI GERI
Roundhouse Kick.
MAWASHI HIJI ATE
Circular Elbow Strike. Also referred to as MAWASHI EMPI UCHI.
MAWASHI ZUKI
Roundhouse Punch.
MAWAT-TE
A command given by the instructor for students to turn around.
MIGI
Right.
MIKAZUKI GERI
Crescent Kick.
MOKUSO
Meditation. Practice often begins or ends with a brief period of meditation. The purpose of meditation is to clear one's mind and to develop cognitive equanimity. Perhaps more importantly, meditation is an opportunity to become aware of conditioned patterns of thought and behavior so that such patterns can be modified, eliminated or more efficiently put to use.
MOROTE UKE
Augmented Block. One arm and fist support the other arm in a block.
MOROTE ZUKI
U-Punch. Punching with both fists simultaneously. Also referred to as AWASE ZUKI.
MUDANSHA
Students without black-belt ranking.
ONEGAI SHIMASU
"I welcome you to train with me," or literally, "I make a request." This is said to one's partner when initiating practice.
OSAE UKE
Pressing Block.
OTOSHI EMPI UCHI
An elbow strike by dropping the elbow. Also referred to as Otoshi Hiji Ate.
OYO WAZA
Applications interpreted from techniques in Kata, implicated according to a given condition.
REI
"Respect". A method of showing respect in Japanese culture is the Bow. It is proper for the junior person bows lower than the senior person.
REIGI
Etiquette. Also referred to as REISHIKI. Observance of proper etiquette at all times (but especially observance of proper DOJO etiquette) is as much a part of one's training as the practice of techniques. Observation of etiquette indicates one's sincerity, one's willingness to learn, and one's recognition of the rights and interests of others.
RENSHI
"A person who has mastered oneself." This person is considered an expert instructor. This status is prerequisite before attaining the status as KYOSHI. Renshi "has a name." Renshi is no longer one of the many, so to speak. Renshi is usually given at yodan to rokudan, depending on the system.
SAGI ASHI DACHI
One Leg Stance. Also referred to as GANKAKU DACHI or TSURU ASHI DACHI.
SAI
An Okinawan weapon that is shaped like the Greek letter 'Psi' with the middle being much longer.
SANBON KUMITE
Three Step Sparring.
SANCHIN DACHI
Hour-glass Stance.
SASHITE
Raising of the hand either to strike, grab, or block.
SEIKEN
Forefist.
SEIZA
A proper sitting position. Sitting on one's knees. Sitting this way requires acclimatization, but provides both a stable base and greater ease of movement than sitting cross-legged. It is used for the formal opening and closing of the class.
SEMPAI
A senior student.
SEN NO SEN
Attacking at the exact moment when the opponent attacks.
SEN SEN NO SEN
Attacking before the opponent attacks. Preemptive attack.
SENSEI
Teacher. It is usually considered proper to address the instructor during practice as "Sensei" rather than by his/her name. If the instructor is a permanent instructor for one's DOJO or for an organization, it is proper to address him/her as "Sensei" off the mat as well.
SHIDOIN
Formally recognized Instructor who has not yet be recognized as a SENSEI. Assistant Instructor.
SHIHAN
A formal title meaning, approximately, "master instructor." A "teacher of teachers." Hanshi is "wise" or sage-like, hence the common translation of "master." Shinan may be an alternative pronunciation.
SHIZENTAI
Natural Position. The body remains relaxed but alert.
SHOMEN
Front or top of head. Also the designated front of a Dojo.
SHUTO TE
Same as SHUTO UKE. This name was used before the advent of sport karate. Used to describe one of the techniques in BOGYO ROKU KYODO.
SHUTO UKE
Knife-hand Block.
SOCHIN DACHI
Immovable Stance. Also referred to as FUDO DACHI.
SOKUTO
Edge of foot. This term is often used to refer to the side thrust kick.
SOTO (UDE) UKE
Outside (Forearm) Block.
SOTO YOKO TE
Same as UCHI UDE UKE. This name was used before the advent of sport karate. Used to describe one of the techniques in BOGYO ROKU KYODO.
SUKUI TE
Same as SUKUI UKE. This name was used before the advent of sport karate. Used to describe one of the techniques in BOGYO ROKU KYODO.
SUKUI UKE
Scooping Block.
SUWARI WAZA
Techniques from a sitting position.
TAI SABAKI
Body movement/shifting.
TEISHO UCHI
Palm Heel Strike.
TEISHO UKE
Palm Heel Block.
TETTSUI UCHI
Hammer Strike. Also called KENTSUI.
TOBI GERI
Jump Kick.
TONFA
A farm tool developed into a weapon by the Okinawans.
TSUKAMI WAZA
Catching technique. A blocking technique by seizing the opponent's weapon, arm, or leg. Used often for grappling techniques.
TSUKI
A punch or thrust (esp. an attack to the midsection).
TSURU ASHI DACHI
Crane Stance, also referred to as GANKAKU DACHI and SAGI ASHI DACHI.
TUITE
Grappling skills.
UCHI (UDE) UKE
Inside (Forearm) Block.
UCHI DESHI
A live-in student. A student who lives in a dojo and devotes him/herself both to training and to the maintenence of the dojo (and sometimes to personal service to the SENSEI of the dojo).
UCHI MAWASHI GERI
Inside Roundhouse Kick.
UCHI YOKO TE
Same as SOTO UDE UKE. This name was used before the advent of sport karate. Used to describe one of the techniques in BOGYO ROKU KYODO.
UKE
Block.
UKEMI WAZA
Breakfall techniques.
URA ZUKI
An upper cut punch used at close range.
URAKEN
Back Knuckle.
USHIRO EMPI UCHI
Striking to the rear with the elbow.
USHIRO GERI
Back Kick.
WAZA
Technique(s).
WAZA ARI
"Half point"
YAMA ZUKI
Mountain Punch. A wide U-shaped dual punch.
YAME
Stop!
YASUMI
Rest. A term used by the instructor to have the students relax, normally following a long series of drills.
YOI
Ready.
YOKO
Side.
YOKO GERI KEAGE
Side Snap Kick. Also referred to as YOKO KEAGE.
YOKO GERI KEKOMI
Side Thrust Kick. Also referred to as YOKO KEKOMI.
YOKO MAWASHI EMPI UCHI
Striking with the elbow to the side.
YOKO TOBI GERI
Flying Side Kick.
YOWAI
"Weak Focus"
YUDANSHA
Black belt holder (any rank).
ZA-REI
The traditional Japanese bow from the kneeling position.
ZANSHIN
Lit. "remaining mind/heart." Even after a Karate technique has been completed, one should remain in a balanced and aware state. ZANSHIN thus connotes "following through" in a technique, as well as preservation of one's awareness so that one is prepared to respond to additional attacks.
ZENKUTSU DACHI
Forward Stance.
ZENSHIN
Forward.
ZORI
Japanese slippers.
(Terminology taken from Cyber Dojo Web Site)
