Karate Terms

Basic Karate Terms

These are the basic karate terms that we use in our dojo. They are in Japanese – we use them as they are to keep up the tradition of Shinkyokushin karate. It is easy to learn these terms as you progress in your training.

Kazu (Numbers)

Ichi – One

Ni – Two

San – Three

Shi – Four

Go – Five

Roku – Six

Shichi – Seven

Hachi – Eight

Ku – Nine

Ju – Ten

Kihon Waza (Basic Techniques)

Tsuki – Punch

Uchi – Strike

Uke – Block

Geri – Kick

Kihon Jutsugo (Basic Terminology)

Arigato – Thank You

Dan – Grade of Black Belt

Dojo – Training Hall

Dogi (gi) – Karate Uniform

Hajime – Begin

Kamaete – Take Ready Position

Karate – Empty Hand

Kata – Form

Ki – Inner Energy

Kiai – Explosive Scream

Kihon – Basics

Kohai – Junior Student

Kyokushin – Ultimate Truth

Kyu – Rank Below Black Belt

Mawatte – Turn

Naore – Return to Starting Position

Obi – Belt

Osu – Patience and Determination

Sensei – Teacher

Yame – Stop

Yasume – Rest, At Ease

Yoi – Ready