Learn The Language
Essential karate
Essential karate
terms and meanings.
Understand the Japanese vocabulary commonly used in karate practice, instruction and the dojo.
| JAPANESE | ENGLISH TRANSLATION |
| Budo | Martial arts |
| Bunkai | Technical application |
| Chudan | Middle |
| Dan | Grade |
| Dachi | Stance |
| Do | (The) way |
| Dojo | School or training hall |
| Geiko | Practice |
| Gedan | Downward |
| Geri | Kick |
| Gi | Uniform |
| Goju | Hard and Soft (style of Karate) |
| Hajime | Begin |
| Hiji | Elbow |
| Ippon | One point |
| Isshin-Ryu | School of one heart |
| Jiyu Kumite | Free style sparring |
| Jodan | Upward |
| Joseki | Seat of honor |
| Kamae | On-guard position |
| Karate | Empty hand |
| Karate-ka | Karate student |
| Kata | Form |
| Kiai | Coordination of strength |
| Kime | Focus |
| Kotekitai | Arm strengthening exercise |
| Kiotsuke | Attention |
| Kyu | Class (as in level) |
| Mae | Front |
| Makiwara | Punching mat or board |
| Mizu Gami | Water Goddess |
| Mokuso | Meditation |
| Mudansha | Below black belt |
| Nukite | Fingertips |
| Obi | Belt |
| Rei | Bow |
| Ryu | School or system |
| Sensei | Teacher |
| Shihan | Master (normally 5th Dan and up) |
| Shiai | Contest |
| Shorin | Pine forest (style of karate) |
| Shuto | Knife hand |
| Sinbon | Referee |
| Soke | First Master |
| Te | Hand |
| Tegata | Open hand |
| Tsuki | Punch |
| Waza | Technique |
| Wazari | Half point |
| Uchi | Strike |
| Uke | Block |
| Yamae | Stop |
| Yoko | Side |
| Yudansha | Black belt holder |
| Yusume | At ease |