Shotowa

Budo

Dictionary

A:

AGE

Upper or rising.

AGE-HAISOKU-UCHI

Rising instep strike. Raising your instep into your attackers groin. Usually combined with a knee kick. It is used in the Kata Nijushiho. This is an effective "close-in" technique.

AGE-UKE

Upper rising block. A basic block to a Jodan attack.

AGE-ZUKI

Rising punch. Also called Age Tsuki.

AGE-EMPI-UCHI

Upward elbow strike or rising elbow strike. Also referred to as Tate Empi Uchi (vertical elbow strike).

AGO

Jaw or chin, as in mouth.

AGURA-WO-KAKU

Informal sitting. This is sitting with the legs crossed.

AI

Harmony.

AI-KAMAE

Harmony posture. This is in relation to your opponent when you are in matching stances. i.e. both have the right leg forward.

AI-KI

Harmonious spirit. This is where you integrate all your movements, breathing etc. to exactly match your opponents and you then control him from it. It is also called "Spirit Meeting" or "Harmony Meeting".

AIKIDO
The way of harmony.

AITE

Opponent or partner.

AITE-NO-TSUKURI

Conditioning of your opponent or partner. This is the preparing or setting up of your opponent in order to execute your technique so that it is most effective. Once you have got him in the most advantageous position for you, you then execute your technique.

AIUCHI

Simultaneous strike.

AKA

Red.

AKIRESU-KEN

Achilles tendon. The large tendon at the back of the foot.

ANANKU

An Okinawan Shorin Ryu Kata, meaning light from the south.

ANTEI

Balance, stability or equilibrium. Also see Fu-Anti.

ASHI (1)

Foot or Leg.

ASHI (2)

One leg or single leg.

ASHI-ATE

Foot strikes or leg strikes. These are methods of attacking with the knee, ball or edge of

the foot, heel, etc.

ASHI-BARAI

Foot or leg sweep. Also called Ashi Harai.

ASHI-FUMIKAE

Changing feet.

ASHI-GAKE

Used in the Kata Bassai Sho, where you hook your foot behind your attackers and then pull your foot back in towards you pulling your attackers foot with you, pulling him off balance. This is different to an Ashi Barai because this is not done in a sweeping motion.

ASHI-HARAI

Foot or leg sweeping, another name for Ashi Barai.

ASHI-HISHIGI

Leg lock or crunch. You apply pressure to your opponents lower calf in order to pin him to the floor.

ASHI-SABAKI

Foot work or foot movement.

ASHI-WAZA

Name given to all leg and foot techniques.

ASHI-YUBI

Toes. Ashi meaning "of the foot" and Yubi being "the digit".

ASHIBO-KAKE-UKE

Leg hooking block, in which the leg is raised to the side and swung in a circle to deflect an opponent’s side kick to the abdomen.

ASHIKUBI

Ankle. Ashi means "of the foot" and Kubi means "of the joint".

ASHIKUBI-KAKE-UKE

Ankle hooking block. Normally used to block a front kick. It is similar in motion to Ashibo-Kake Uke.

ASHIZOKO

Bottom foot. You use this to sweep your opponents foot during Ashi Barai.

ATAMA

Head, or the top of the head.

ATARASHII

New.

ATE

Strike or striking.

ATE-WAZA

Striking or smashing techniques.

ATEMI

Body strike or striking.

ATEMI-WAZA

Body striking techniques that are normally used in conjunction with grappling and throwing techniques.

ATERU

To place, to put, or to hold.

ATO

Backward movement.

ATO-ASHI

Back Leg or Back Foot.

ATO-UCHI

Delayed strike or feint. A feint must cause your opponent to believe that the attack is going to hit him and therefore cause him to move his guard and try to block it, which in turn will give you your target area.

ATTATE-IRU

Contact.

AU

To meet. This means to encounter an opponent, be it in the Dojo or "on the street".

AWASE

Combined.

AWASE-AGE-UKE

Combined upper rising block, both arms coming up together performing the block. It is seen in the Kata Bassai Dai. It can also be used as a defense when someone attempts a two handed grab.

AWASE-HIKI-TSUKAMI

Combined pulling grasp, as seen in the Kata Heian Godan after the hand pressing block.

AWASE-KOKO-UKE

Combined tiger mouth block, as seen in the Kata Empi. A good technique against a Jo or Bo attack.

AWASE-MAWASHI-KAKE-UKE

Combined round house hooking block. Seen in the Kata Nijushiho. This technique can also be used to unbalance or throw your attacker.

AWASE-MAWASHI-UKE

Combined roundhouse block, as seen at the start of Kata Kankau Dai.

AWASE-SHUTO-AGE-UKE

Combined knife hand rising block. As seen in the Kata Chinte. The thumbs touch forming a triangle.

AWASE-UCHI

Combined strike. A general term for all combined strikes.

AWASE-UKE

Combined block. A general term for all combined blocks.

AWASE-WAZA

Combined techniques.

AWASE-ZUKI

U-punch. Also referred to as Morote Zuki.

AYUMI

Step or pace.

AYUMI-ASHI
Stepping foot, a method of footwork, where the feet move alternatively one ahead of the other each sliding along the floor.

AYUMI-DACHI

A stance found in ItosuKai Shito-Ryu. It is a natural "walking" stance with the weight over the center.

B:

BARAI

Sweep, sometimes seen as Harai.

BASSAI-DAI

To penetrate a fortress (greater of pair). Normally taught once third Kyu has been obtained. This Kata was originally called Passai.

BASSAI-SHO

To penetrate a fortress (lesser of pair). A technically more advanced Kata than Bassai Dai. The Kata is notable for its leg sweeps and blocks against a staff or Bo.

BETEI

The bones at the base of the spine.

BO
Staff. A long stick used as a weapon (approximately 6 feet long).

BO-UCHI

Bo strike. A general term for any strike using a Bo.

BO-UKE

Bo block, a block against an attack from a Bo. This is a general term that covers any block against a Bo attack.

BO-WAZA

Bo techniques.

BO-JUTSU

Wooden staff art.
BOGU (1)
Protective equipment. i.e. hand mitts.

BOGU (2)

Body armor.

BOGU-KUMITE (1)

Sparring wearing protective equipment.

BOGU-KUMITE (2)

A method of fighting wearing armor.

BOGYO-ROKU-KYODO

Six defense actions. A basic drill of the Japan Karate-Do Ryobu-Kai. Uses the old names

of techniques.

BOKKEN
A wooden sword. It resembles a Katana and is used for practice

BUDO
Martial way. 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.

BUGEI

Martial arts.

BUNKAI

A study of the techniques and applications in Kata.

BUSHI

Warrior.

BUSHI-TE

Warrior hands. One of the old names for Karate.

BUSHIDO

Way of the warrior. Bushi meaning "warrior" and Do meaning "way of".

BYOBUDAOSHI

To topple a folded screen. This is a throwing technique where you step your leg behind your attackers front leg and at the same time that you sweep his leg you attack his chin withyour open hand pushing his head back in the opposite direction that which his leg is being swept in.

C:

CHI

Blood.

CHIKARA

Power or strength.

CHINTE

Strange hands. A higher grade Kata. Master Funakoshi named this Kata Shoin. The Kata originally came from China.

CHINTO

An Okinawan Shorin Ryu Kata, meaning fighting to the east. The old name for the Kata Gankaku, which means "crane on a rock". Funakoshi changed its name.

CHOJI-DACHI

"T"-stance, this is an old name for what is now called Teiji Dachi. It is a stance where the feet form the shape of a "T".

CHOKKAKU

Right angle.

CHOKU

Straight.

CHOKU-ZUKI
Straight punch. This is a punch that is normally practiced from the standing position and is generally the first punch taught in Karate. It is seen used in the Kata Bassai Dai

.

CHOWA

Harmony. The harmonious mental and physical reaction while at practice.

CHOWASURU

To have harmony with opponent, to harmonize movements in Kata demonstrations etc.

CHOYAKU-HANGEKI

Jumping counter attack.

CHU

Middle.

CHUDAN

Mid-Level or mid-section. If called prior to an attack it indicates that the attack will be to the stomach area.

CHUDAN

Middle area.

CHUDAN-BARAI-UKE

Middle level sweeping block. The same as a Gedan Barai Uke but used against a middle level attack.

CHUDAN-CHOKU-ZUKI

A straight punch to the mid-section of the opponent's body.

CHUDAN-NO-KAMAE

Middle level posture, or middle level guard. A freestyle posture where your hands are held at middle level.

CHUDAN-TEISHO-FURI-UCHI

Middle level palm heel circular strike. Used in the Kata Chinte.

CHUDAN-UCHI-UDE-UKE

Middle level inside forearm block. A basic Shotokan block. Also see Uchi Ude Uke.

CHUDAN-UDE-UKE

Middle level forearm block, blocking an attack to the mid-section.

CHUDAN-UKE

Middle level block. A general term for middle level blocks.

CHUDAN-ZUKI

A punch to the mid-section of the opponent's body.

CHUSOKU

Ball of foot.

COUNTING-IN-JAPANESE

1. Ichi 2. Ni 3. San 4. Shi 5. Go 6. Roku 7. Shichi 8. Hachi 9. Ku or Kyu 10. Ju 20. Niju 30. Sanju 40. Yonju 50. Goju 60. Rokuju 70. Nanaju 80. Hachiju 90. Kuju 100. Kyaku

D:

DACHI

Stance or position. Also referred to as Tachi.

DAI

Major or Greater. (the term describes the movements of the Kata rather than its importance).

DAN

Level, rank or degree. A black belt rank. Grades under black belt are known as Kyu grades. Most associations recognize up to 10 levels of black belt.

DAN-ZUKI

Consecutive punching (same hand). This can be effective if done quickly because your opponent will not expect a second punch from the same hand.

DANCHU

Summit of breast bone or sternum.

DE

Advancing.

DEAI

Encountering. see Deai Osae Uke.

DEAI-OSAE-UKE

Pressing block, stepping in at the time, or encountering as the attack comes forward, or suppressing it.

DEASHI-BARAI

Advanced foot sweep. Sometimes seen as Deashi Harai.

DENKO

The area between the seventh and eighth ribs.

DESHI

Trainee.

DO (1)

Way or path. In Karate, the connotation is that of a way of attaining enlightenment or a way of improving one's character through traditional training.

DO (2)

Torso or trunk of body.

DO (3)

Movement or activity.

DO-KYAKU

Moving leg.

DOGU

Tools, equipment, instruments, etc. All of the pieces of equipment used in martial arts practice.

DOJI

Simultaneous.

DOJI-WAZA

Simultaneous techniques. Used to describe any time that techniques are performed simultaneously.

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) when entering or leaving the dojo.

DOJO-KUN

School oath, or standard of the school.

Example: Shotokan Karate Dojo-Kun

ð Seek Perfection of Character.

ð Be Faithful.

ð Endeavor.

ð Be Respectful.

ð Refrain from Violent Behavior.

DOKAN

The ring of the way; repetition, constant practice.

DOKKO

The Mastoids. Found by pressing up behind the base of the ears.

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.

DORI (1)

Practice.

DORI (2)

Pull or hold.

DOSHU

Master or master of the way.

E:

EKU

A wooden oar used by the Okinawans which was improvised as a weapon.

EMBUSEN

Performance line, the floor pattern of a given Kata. All Shotokan Kata will start and finish on the same spot.

EMPI (1)

A black belt level Kata, translated as "Flying Swallow". This Kata was originally called Wanshu. It is named after a flying swallow because the alternate high and low attacks that are seen in it are said to resemble a swallow in flight. It is considered to be one of the oldest Kata.

EMPI (2)

Elbow. Sometimes referred to as Hiji.

EMPI-SURI-UKE

See Hiji Suri Uke.

EMPI-UCHI

Elbow strike (also called Hiji Ate)

EMPI-UKE

Elbow block. A general term for the blocking action using the elbow.

EN

Circle.

EN-SHO

Round heel, an alternative name for Kakato.

ENGETSU-UKE

Circular foot block.

ENOREI

Relax. You may also see this as Enoy.

ENOY

Relax. See Enorei.

ENPI

Elbow, normally spelt as Empi.

ENSHIN

Centre of a circle or circular.

ERI

Lapel, as in the lapel on a Gi.

ERI-SEOI-NAGE

Lapel shoulder throw. People often think that there are no throws in Karate, yet the earliest Karate books demonstrate throws as Karate techniques.

ERI-TSUKAMI

Lapel grab.

F:

FU-ANTI

Instability or lack of balance.

FUDO-DACHI

Immovable stance ro rooted stance. Also referred to as Sochin Dachi.

FUKAI

Hold strongly.

FUKURAHAGI

Calf (of the leg).

FUKUTO

The outside of the lower part of the thigh.

FUMI-WAZA

Stamping techniques.

FUMIKIRI-GERI

Cutting kick. A stamping style kick using the edge or blade of the foot to strike with. A good technique for striking in to an opponent’s wind-pipe when he is on the floor.

FUMIKOMI-GERI

Stamping kick. Usually applied to the knee, shin, or instep of an opponent.

FURI

Swing or circular or round.

FURI-KOSA-BARAI

Circular cross sweep, It is used in the Kata Nijushiho.

FURIAGE

Swing up.

FURIKAERU

Turn (look) round, rotate and look back.

FURISUTE

Swing.

FUSE

Defense or ground.

FUSHI

Joint, knuckle.

FUSHO

Injury, wound.

G:

GAESHI

Counter. This is also spelt Kaeshi.

GAI-WAN

Outer arm, part of the forearm located on the side opposite the thumb.

GAN

Eye. You may also see this as Gansei. .

GANCHU

Area below the nipples.

GANKAKU

"Crane on a rock", a Kata from Shotokan Karate.

GANKAKU-DACHI

Crane stance, sometimes referred to as Tsuru Ashi Dachi and Sagi Ashi Dachi.

GANKAKU-KAMAE

Crane posture, as used in the Kata Gankaku. The legs are in Tsuru Ashi Dachi and the arms in Manji Uke.

GASSHUKUA

Special training camp.

GEDAN

Lower level or lower section. If called prior to an attack it indicates that the attack will be to the lower area of the body.

GEDAN-BARAI
Lower level sweep. A basic karate block. Normally the first move students make prior to going on to do their combinations, one of the reasons for this is so that the first move in Karate is a block which demonstrates that Karate is for self-defense.

GEDAN-BARAI-UKE

Lower level sweeping block, usually shortened to Gedan Barai.

GEDAN-CHOKU-ZUKI

A punch to the lower section of the opponent's body, normally the groin.

GEDAN-JUJI-UKE

Lower level X block. As seen in the Kata Heian Yondan and others. Normally used to block a front kick. The block should land after the attacker has raised his knee but prior to his leg beginning to extend.

GEDAN-KAKE-UKE

Lower level hooking block.

GEDAN-SHUTO-OSAE

Lower level knife hand press. As seen in the Kata Gojushiho Dai.

GEDAN-SOTO-UDE-UKE

Lower level outside forearm block, as seen in the Kata Tekki Nidan.

GEDAN-SUKUI-UKE

Lower level hooking block, as seen in the Kata Bassai Dai.

GEDAN-UDE-UKE

Low forearm block.

GEDAN-UKE

Lower level block.

GEDAN-ZUKI

Lower level punch, usually directed at the groin area.

GEKON

The spot beneath the lower lip. Ippon Ken is a good technique to use to attack this target.

GERI

Kick, sometimes also seen as being spelt as Keri.

GERI-NUKE

Best described as slipping through the enemy by kicking.

GERI-WAZA

Kicking techniques.

GERIGAESHI

Return kick or kick counter. After you have executed the kick and performed Gerihanashi you then re-extend the kick back in to the target. This technique often works because after you have put your first kick in which may have been blocked by your opponent he doesn't expect the second kick to come from the same leg and drops his guard to it.

GERIHANASHI

Kick release. After executing a kick you must withdraw the leg with the same speed as the kick went in. If you leave your leg out after a kick it can be grabbed by your opponent who can then easily break your supporting leg with a simple kick.

GI

Training uniform. Traditionally in Japanese and Okinawan Karate Dojo, the Gi must be white and cotton. The only markings allowed are the organization patch on the left breast area and the person's name at the front bottom corner of the jacket.

GO

Five.

GO-NO-SEN

The tactic where one allows the opponent to attack first so to open up targets for

counterattack.

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 and Kiais.

GOJU-RYU

Hard, soft way. An Okinawan style of Karate.

GOJUSHIHO

An Okinawan Kata, meaning 54 steps.

GOJUSHIHO-SHO-/-DAI

Fifty Four Steps. Two high grade Katas which were originally performed over fifty four steps.

GOSHI

Hip, sometimes is spelt as Koshi.

GOSHIN

Self defense.

GYAKU

Reverse or opposite.

GYAKU-ASHI

Reverse foot or reverse leg.

GYAKU-HANMI

Reversed side-on, half front facing position. This stance is useful in assisting kicking off the back leg as a counter move because the hip is all ready in.

GYAKU-MAWASHI-GERI

Reverse round-house kick. Sometimes also called Ura Mawashi Geri. Instead of coming from the outside in, the leg travels from the inside out.

GYAKU-MAWASHI-EMPI-UCHI

Reverse roundhouse elbow strike.

GYAKU-MIKAZUKI-GERI

Back or reverse crescent kick, as seen in the Kata Empi. May also be seen as Ura Mikazuki Geri.

GYAKU-TE

Reverse hand.

GYAKU-ZUKI
Reverse punch. A basic Karate punch. The punching hand is the opposite one to the leg that is forward.

H:

HA

Tooth.

HACHI

Eight.

HACHIMAKI

"Head wrapping." A light cotton towel, also known as a tengui, wrapped around the forehead to restrict perspiration from running into the eyes and face.

HACHIJI-DACHI
A natural stance, feet positioned about shoulder width apart, and pointed slightly outward.

HADA

Skin. also see Hifu.

HADASHI

Bare feet.

HAGUKI

Gums.

HAI (1)

Yes.

HAI (2)

Lung.

HAI-WAN

Back arm.

HAI-WAN-NAGASHI-UKE

Back arm sweeping block. Nagashi can mean "flowing" as in Nagashi Zuki, or "flowing punch".

HAI-WAN-UKE

Back arm block.

HAIMEN

Back or rear side.

HAISHU

Backhand or back of the hand.

HAISHU-AGE-UCHI

Back hand rising strike. Used in the Kata Nijushiho.

HAISHU-AWASE-UKE

Backhand combined block, the opening block in the Kata Gankaku. Also seen in Bassai Sho.

HAISHU-JUJI-UKE

Backhand cross block.

HAISHU-UCHI

Back hand strike. A strike with the back of the hand where the hand and fingers are straight.

HAISHU-UKE

Back hand block. A block using the back of the hand.

HAISOKU

Instep of the foot. The area at the base of the shin bone and the top of the foot.

HAITO

Ridge hand. Thumb extended across the palm touching the base of the little finger and striking with the area just below the base of the index finger to the first joint of the thumb. Often used against the temple.

HAITO-KOSHI-KAMAE

Ridge-hand hip posture. The bottom hand is held as Seiken and the top hand is held in Haito with the palm facing up.

HAITO-SUKUI-NAGE

Ridge-hand scooping throw. Used to counter a front kick. As you scoop the leg you bring it up high, hopefully taking your attacker off balance and throwing him to the floor.

HAITO-UCHI
Ridge hand strike.

HAITO-UKE

Ridge hand block.

HAJIME

Begin. A command given to start a given drill, Kata, or Kumite.

HAN

Half.

HAN-ZENKUTSU-DACHI

Half front stance, where the feet are only half the distance apart from the full stance. Also see Moto Dachi.

HANA

Nose.

HANAJI

Nosebleed.

HANGETSU

A black belt level Kata, meaning half moon.

HANGETSU-DACHI
Half moon stance. It is also known as wide hour glass stance.

HANMI

Side on, half front facing position.

HANMI-SASHI-ASHI-DACHI

Side on or half front facing stepping across position, as seen in the Kata Hungestsu.

HANMI-KAMAE

Half facing position.

HANSHI

Master. An honorary title given to the highest black belt of an organization, signifying their understanding of their art.

HAPPOBURI

Warm Up Exercises

HARA

Abdomen, belly, means the same as Tandan.

HARAI

Sweep or sweeping. Normally seen as Barai.

HARAI-FUMIKOMI-GERI

Sweeping stamping kick, as seen in the Kata Bassai Dai.

HARAI-TE

Sweeping technique with the hand.

HARAI-WAZA

Sweeping techniques.

HARU

Spread.

HASAMI

Scissors.

HASAMI-(UDE)-UKE-HIZA- KAMAE

Scissor (forearm) block knee posture. Both forearms perform a scissor block and at the same time the right knee raises attacking the groin.

HASAMI-GERI

Scissor kick.

HASAMI-TETTSUI-UCHI

Scissor bottom fist strike. Both bottom fists perform a scissor strike in to the sides of your attackers body.

HASAMI-ZUKI

Scissor punch.

HAYAI

Quick, fast or rapid.

HAZUSHI

Pulling away.

HAZUSHI-TE

Pulling away hand, used to describe the action of pulling your hand away, after it has

been grasped.

HEIAN

Peaceful mind or peace or tranquility. These five Kata were originally called Pinan. Funakoshi said that having mastered these five Kata and all of their moves, you should now be confident enough that you could defend yourself from attack and the meaning of the name Heian is to be taken in this context.

HEIKO-DACHI-(HIGAONNA- LINE)

A heiko dachi stance, where the front foot is turned slightly inwards while the rear foot is straight.

HEIKO-TATE-ZUKI

Parallel vertical fist punch, As seen in the Kata Gojushiho Dai.

HEIKO-URA-ZUKI

Parallel close punch. Used in the Kata Bassai Sho.

HEIKO-ZUKI

Parallel punch. A double, simultaneous punch.

HEISOKU

Instep.

HEISOKU-DACHI
An informal attention stance. Feet and toes are together and pointed straight forward.

HENKA

Changing.

HENKA-WAZA

Changing techniques.

HENTE

Changing hands. This means changing your blocking hand to your attacking hand, or your attacking hand to your blocking hand. For example you block and then attack straight away with the same hand.

HENTE-WAZA

Changing hands techniques.

HICHU

The base of the throat, Adam's-apple or projection of the thyroid cartilage of the larynx.

HIDARI

Left or left side. Also spelt as Hadari.

HIDARI-JIGO-TAI

Left defensive posture.

HIDARI-KAGI-KAMAE

Left hooking stance or posture, as seen in the Kata Hiean Godan.

HIDARI-KAMAE

Left posture. Used to describe when your left side is forward in a stance.

HIDARI-NANAME-NI-YOKERU- KOTO

Left diagonal evasion.

HIDARI-TE

Left hand.

HIFU

Skin. also see Hada.

HIJI

Elbow, also known as Empi. Hiji is the older version.

HIJI-ATEMI

Elbow strikes.

HIJI-UKE

A blocking action using the elbow.

HIJI-WAZA

Elbow techniques.

HIJI-ATE

Elbow strike, also called Empi Uchi.

HIJIZUME

Elbow joint.

HIKI

Retract or pull back. Also sometimes spelt as Hiku.

HIKI-ASHI

Retracting leg, pulling your front leg back so that it is level with what was the rear leg. i.e. to avoid a sweep.

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.

HIKKAKU

Scratch, to wound with the nails. This is can be an application from the Kata Bassai Sho, where you bring your fingers back across your attacker’s eyes.

HIKUME

Low.

HINERI

Twist. Sometimes this is also seen spelt as Hineru.

HINERI-TENSHIN

A move where you twist and change your course, e.g. when you twist your wrist out of the grip of your opponent and at the same time change your body course. It is seen in the Katas Heian Sandan and Kanku Dai.

HINERI-YOKO-EMPI-UCHI

Twisting lateral elbow strike.

HINERITE-UKE

Twisting hand block.

HINERU

Twist. Sometimes this is also seen spelt as Hineri.

HIRA

Flat or level.

HIRA-HASAMI

Flat scissors. Normally called Koko or Tiger Mouth.

HIRA-NUKITE

Level spear hand or level piercing hand. This is when the palm is facing down.

HIRA-KOTE

Level forearm. Centre of the outer and inner forearms.

HIRAKEN

Flat fist or fore knuckle fist, as in a punch but with the knuckles extended. Also referred to as Hiraken Zuki.

HIRAKEN-ZUKI

Fore-knuckle strike.

HIRATE

Flat or level hand.

HIRATE-DE-UTSU

Slap, as in open handed strike.

HIRATE-OSAE-UKE

Fore hand pressing block, or flat hand pressing block.

HISHIRYO

Think without thinking; consciousness beyond thought.

HITAI

Brow or forehead.

HITOSASHI-IPPON-KEN

Forefinger knuckle fist, more commonly seen as Ippon Ken.

HITOSASHIYUBI-IPPON-KEN

Fore finger fist. Normally called Ippon Ken.

HIZA

Knee or lap.

HIZA

Knee.

HIZA-DACHI

One knee stance. Half or single kneeling position. As seen in the Kata Gankaku.

HIZA-GERI

Knee kick.

HIZA-UKE

Knee block, a blocking action using the knee.

HIZA-WAZA

Knee techniques.

HIZAGASHIRA

Knee cap.

HIZAGASHIRA-GERI

Knee cap kick.

HIZAKANSETSU

Knee joint.

HIZATSUI

Knee hammer.

HIZKEN-GERI

Knee fist kick. Another name for Hiza Geri.

HO

Step or pace.

HOKO

Direction.

HOMBU

Headquarters.

HOMBU-DOJO

A term used to refer to the central dojo of an organization.

HON

Basic or fundamental.

HONE

Bone.

HOO

Cheek.

HORAN-NO-KAMAE

"Egg in the nest posture" or ready position used in some Kata where the fist in covered by the other hand. Another way of explaining this position is that empty hand (karateka) over comes angry fist (A non-karate person). It is also called wrapped fist.

HUNGETSU

Half moon. A black belt Kata mainly performed from Hungetsu Dachi. This Kata is sometimes seen spelt as Hangetsu.

HUNGETSU-DACHI

Half moon stance. Also seen spelt as Hangetsu Dachi.

HYOSHI

Rhythm.

I:

IAI (1)

Sparring which begins with both the attacker and the defender seated and facing each other is called Iai.

IAI (2)

Swordplay.

IAIDO

Way of the sword.

IBUKI

Breathing method.

ICHI (1)

One.

ICHI (2)

Position or location.

ICHIBYOSHI

In one breath.

IIE

No, that is incorrect.

IKKEN-HISSATSU

To kill with one blow.

INASU

Evasion of an on-coming attack through the course of removing the body from the line of attack.

IPPON

One point (in sport karate).

IPPON-DACHI

Another term for a one legged stance, also see Ashi Dachi.

IPPON-KEN

One knuckle fist.

IPPON-KUMITE

One step sparring.

IPPON-NUKITE

One finger spear hand. A stabbing action using the extended index finger. Normally aimed at the eyes or throat.

IPPON-ZUKI

One finger thrust. Normally called Ippon Nukite.

IRIMI

To penetrate, to enter. Usually describes moving closer to the opponent than the attack as you close in defense.

ISSHIN-RYU
"One heart school" An Okinawan style of karate.

J:

JI-IN

Temple grounds.

JI-ON

From the temple of Ji-On. A higher grade Kata

JIAI

To be in harmony with one's self (start position of Ji Katas). It said that it was a form of greeting used by the monks at the temple of Ji-On.

JIAI-NO-KAMAE

In harmony with one's self posture, as seen at the start of the Katas Bassai Dai, Jion, Jiin etc. It describes the state of mind that you should be in before you begin the Kata.

JIKU-ASHI

Pivot leg.

JINCHU

Philtrum, or the spot just under the nose.

JINZO

Kidney.

JION

A Shorei-Ryu Kata.

JITTE

Ten hands. A higher grade Kata. The translation implies that if the Kata is mastered you can face ten opponents. This Kata is unique in that there is not a single punch in it.

JIYU

Freedom (of movement etc.).

JIYU-DACHI

Free sparring posture.

JIYU-IPPON-KUMITE

One step free sparring.

JIYU-KUMITE

Free sparring.

JO

Wooden staff about 4'-5' in length. The Jo originated as a walking stick.

JO-TSUKAMI-WAZA

Jo grasping techniques.

JO-UKE

Jo block, a block against a Jo.

JODAN

Upper level. If called prior to an attack it indicates that the attack will be to the head area.

JODAN-MOROTE-UKE

Upper level augmented forearm block. As seen in the Kata Ji-On.

JODAN-UKE

Upper level block.

JO-DO

Way of the 4 foot staff.

JOGAI

Out of bounds.

JOKO

Slow.

JOMYAKU

Vein.

JOSO-KUTEI

Raised Sole.

JOTAI

Upper Body.

JU (1)

Soft, gentle.

JU (2)

Ten.

JUDO

Gentle way.

JUJI

Cross.

JUJI-UKE
Cross block or X block. Where the arms cross and block at the base of where they cross

.

JUJUSTU

Art of gentleness.

JUN-KAITEN

Regular rotation, corresponding rotation. The hip and arm going in the same direction.

JUN-ZUKI (1)

Corresponding punch. i.e. punching with the same arm as the leg that is forward.

JUN-ZUKI (2)

The Wado Ryu term for Oi Zuki.

JUTTE (1)

A Shorei Ryu Kata.

JUTTE (2)

A forked iron truncheon.

K:

KA

Person or practitioner.

KACHI

Win, victory.

KACHIKAKE

Point on jaw. Also see Ago.

KAESHI

Counter, the countering of an opponents offensive action. Sometimes this seen spelt as Kaesu.

KAESHI-IPPON-KUMITE

Returning one step sparring, or countering one step sparring.

KAFUKUBU

Abdomen.

KAGI

Hook.

KAGI-UKE

Hooking block.

KAGI-ZUKI
Hook punch.

KAHANSHIN

Lower half of the body.

KAHO

Downward.

KAI

Style.

KAISHIN

Open heart, the beginning move of the Kata Kanku Dai.

KAISHO

Open hand. This refers to the type of blow or block which is delivered with the open hand. It can also be used to describe other hand blows in which the fist is not fully clenched or blocks with an open hand.

KAISHO-KOSA-UKE

Open hand cross block.

KAISHO-UKE

Open hand block.

KAITEN

Turn or rotate.

KAIUN-NO-TE

Open the cloud. From the Kata Unsu

KAKAE-NAGE

Trapping throw.

KAKAE-TE-UKE

Trapping hand block

KAKATO

Heel (of the foot)

KAKATO-GERI

Heel kick or also known as Axe Kick, striking with the back of the heel of the foot.

KAKE

Hooking.

KAKE-DORI

Hooking grasp or pull.

KAKE-TE

Hooking hand.

KAKE-UKE

Hooking block.

KAKE-WAZA

Hooking techniques.

KAKIWAKE

A two handed block using the outer surface of the wrist to neutralize a two-handed attack, such as a grab.

KAKIWAKE-UKE

Reverse wedge block. A two handed block used when an attacker attempts to grab the front chest area of the defender.

KAKUTO (1)

Bent wrist.

KAKUTO (2)

Heel of hand.

KAKUTO-UCHI

Bent wrist strike. Wrist joint strike. Also known as Ko Uchi.

KAKUTO-UKE

Bent wrist block. Wrist joint block. Also known as Ko Uke.

KAMA

Grass sickle (an Okinawan weapon).

KAMAE (1)

Posture or stance. Sometimes spelt Gamae.

KAMAE (2)

Attitude.

KAMAE-TE

A command given by the instructor for students to get into position.

KAMI

Hair. Kami Dori or Tsukami is Hair grab. Also see Ke.

KAMI-TSUKAMI

Hair Grab.

KAMITSUKU

Bite.

KAN

Fighting awareness, or penetrating the true nature of things.

KANJI

The symbols of Japanese writing. Karate is made up of two kanji. The first being the symbol for "Empty" and the second symbol being for "hand".

KANKU-DAI

A Shotokan Kata, meaning "To view the sky" Developed from the Okinawan Kata Kusanku.

KANKU-SHO

Viewing the sky. (Sho describes the movements of the Kata rather than its importance)

KANSETSU

Against the joint. Also used to describe locking techniques against joints.

KANSETSU-GERI

Joint kick, against a joint. Often used against the knee.

KANSETSU-UCHI

Joint strike.

KANSETSU-WAZA

Against the joint techniques, or locking techniques.

KAO

Face, as in of the head.

KARA

Empty. In Karate we use the Kara to imply that we are weapon-less or empty handed. Also, Master Funakoshi said "that the person who follows Karate must make himself void or empty by ridding himself of all self-centeredness and greed, making yourself empty within, but upright without. This is the real meaning of the "empty" in Karate.

KARADA

Body, physique.

KARATE
Empty Hand. When Karate was first introduced to Japan, it was called "To- De". The meaning of To De is Chinese Hand.

KARATE-NI-SENTENASHI

A term which sums up the essence of the art, it means "in Karate there is no first strike".

KARATE-D0-NYUMON

The first book written by Gichin Funakoshi. It translates literally as "A passage through the gates of the Karate way".

KARATE-DO

The way of the empty hand. This implies not only the physical aspect of Karate, but also the mental and social aspects of Karate.

KARATE-KA

A practitioner of Karate.

KARIKOMI

Cutting in.

KASEI

Under.

KASEI-GERI

Under kick. It is kicking from under your opponent. It is seen in the Kata Unsu.

KASUMI

Temple on the side of the head. Also see Komikami

KASUSATSU

The area between the fifth and sixth vertebra.

KATA (1)

Form, figure or shape. In Karate, Kata is a form or prescribed pattern of movement fighting imaginary opponents.

KATA (2)

Shoulder.

KATA(3)

Single or one.

KATANA

A type of sword. It was the longer of the two swords normally carried by a Samurai.

KATATE

One hand or single hand.

KATATE-UKE

One hand or single hand block.

KATSU (1)

Win.

KATSU (2)

A resuscitation technique.

KATSU (3)

A type of loud shout, similar to a Kiai.

KAWASHI

"Interaction", In practice you pass through your opponents attack, in effect exchanging places with him. Stepping in towards the attacker, while turning (Kawasu) your body to avoid the attack. Evasion.

KE

Hair.

KE-TSUKAMI

Hair Grab. This could also be Kami Tsukami.

KEAGE

"Kick Up" Generally used to describe snapping as opposed to thrusting kicks. See Keriage

KEBANASHI

Kick off.

KEGA

Injury or wound.

KEICHU

Nape of the neck.

KEIKO (1)

Training or practice.

KEIKO (2)

Joined fingertips or Chicken Head hand.

KEITO-UCHI

Chicken head strike.

KEITO-UKE

Chicken head block.

KEITO-UKE-NAGASHI

Chicken head blocking sweep.

KEKKAN

Blood vessel.

KEKOMI

Thrust kick (literally kick into or straight). See Kerikomi.

KEMPO

Fist Law. A generic term to describe fighting systems that uses the fist.

KEN (1)

Fist.

KEN (2)

Sword.

KENDO

Way of the sword.

KENSEI

The technique with silent Kiai. Related to meditation.

KENSEITAI

Feint.

KENTSUI

Hammer Fist Also known as Tetsui.

KENTSUI-UCHI

Hammer fist strike. See also Tetsui Uchi

KENTSUI-UKE

Hammer fist block. Also know as Tetsui Uke.

KERI

Kick. Also called Geri when used with another word.

KERI-WAZA

Kicking techniques.

KERIAGE

Kick up, this is the original name for a snap kick Keage.

KERIKOME

Kick in, this is the original name for a thrust kick or Kekomi.

KETTO

Blood.

KI

Mind. Spirit. Energy. Vital-force. Intention. (Chinese "chi") Ki cannot easily be translated directly into any language.

KI-KEN-TAI-NO-ITCHI

Spirit, technique and body as one.

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. One translation of Kiai is "the expression of vital spirit". It is often translated as "spirit shout".

KIBA-DACHI
Horse straddle stance or horse riding stance. Also known as Naihanchi Dachi

.

KIHAKU

Spirit.

KIHON

Basic techniques.

KIHON-IPPON-KUMITE

Basic one step sparring. The attacker calls the attack. The defender blocks and counters the attack. All carried out in basics. Kihon Kumite would be basic sparring.

KIME

Focus of power and concentration. Kime comes about as a result of Shin-Gi- Tai.

KIN-GERI

Front kick with the instep (aimed at groin).

KINNIKU

Muscles.

KINTEKI

Testicles.

KIREI-TU

Stand up.

KIRI

Cut or repeat.

KIRI-KAESHI

Repeated counter.

KISHO-IPPON-KUMITE

Returning one step sparring.

KIZAMI-GERI

Jabbing kick. Also called Kizami Mae Geri. It is a front kick off the front leg, thrown with a jabbing action.

KIZAMI-ZUKI

Jabbing punch.

KO (1)

Arc.

KO (2)

Back.

KO-BO-ICHI

The concept of "attack-defense connection".

KO-EMPI-UCHI

Rear elbow strike. Normally called Ushiro Empi Uchi.

KO-UCHI

Wrist joint strike. Also known as Kakuto Uchi.

KO-UKE

Crane block or arch block. Same as Kakuto Uke.

KOBAYASHI-RYU

"Small forest" An Okinawan form of Shorin Ryu karate.

KOBORE

Tibia.

KOBUDO

Ancient warrior art. Usually refers to weapons training.

KOBUSHI

Fist, in Karate Seiken is used.

KODENKO

The base of the spine.

KOHAI

A student junior to oneself.

KOHO

Back, behind or rear.

KOHO-KAITEN-TOBI

Rear turning jump, as used in the Kata Empi.

KOHO-OSAE

Rear grab. Often called a "bear hug".

KOHO-TENKAN

Reversing direction.

KOKEN

Wrist joint or bent wrist.

KOKO

Tiger mouth.

KOKO-HIZA-KUZUSHI

Tiger mouth knee pull down as seen in the Kata Nijushiho.

KOKO-OSAE

Tiger mouth grasp.

KOKO-UCHI

Tiger mouth strike. A strike using the area between the thumb and index finger.

KOKO-UKE

Tiger mouth block

KOKORO

Spirit, heart. In Japanese culture, the spirit dwells in the heart.

KOKOTSU

The centre point of the fibula and tibia (shin bone).

KOKUTSU-DACHI
Back stance. A stance with most of the weight over the rear leg. The actual translation means back knee bent stance.

KOKYU

Breath or breathing.

KOMANAGE

Spinning top. This is a throwing technique where you place your hand in the arm pit area of your attacker whilst your other hand holds his wrist. You then force your opponent down.

KOMEKAMI

The temple area of the head.

KOMI

Near or against.

KOMPAI

Peers, those of similar grade.

KORI

The upper surface of the instep.

KOSA

Cross.

KOSA-DACHI

Crossed stance referring to the feet. or Kosa Ashi Dachi.

KOSHI (1)

Ball of foot.

KOSHI (2)

Hip or waist.

KOSHI-KAMAE

Hip posture or stance. A stance where the fists are held one above the other against the hip.

KOSHI-NO-KAITEN

Hip rotation.

KOSHIN

Rearward.

KOTE (1)

Wrist.

KOTE (2)

Back hand.

KOTE (3)

Forearm.

KOTE-HODOKI-WAZA

Wrist releasing techniques.

KOTE-UCHI

Forearm strike.

KOWASU

Break.

KU

Nine.

KUBI

Neck.

KUBIWA

Neck circle or "to encircle the neck". This is a throwing technique where you encircle your opponent’s neck with your arm and then force his head and body off balance backwards throwing him to the ground.

KUBOTAN

A self-defense tool developed by Takayuki Kubota. This tool serves normally as a key chain.

KUCHI

Mouth.

KUCHIBIRU

Lip.

KUMADE

Bear hand.

KUMADE-UCHI

Bear hand strike.

KUMITE

Fighting or sparring

KUN

Oath.

KUSAGAKURE

The outside edge of the top of the foot.

KUSANKU

An Okinawan Shorin Ryu Kata, named after a Chinese Master.

KUSSU

Bent. For example, Hiza Kussu is bent knee.

KUTSU

Pain.

KUZUSHI

Breaking or upsetting.

KYO

Teach or teaching.

KYOEI

Area below the armpits, approximately the spot between the fifth and sixth ribs.

KYOKU

Breathing.