The most important karate terms and signs

The spread of karate from Okinawa, which is part of Japan today, means that the terms and symbols come from the Japanese language. There are translations for the karate terms, but knowing the names in the original language is a condition for training and exams. At the latest, if you want to learn from a trainer who comes from Japan, for example, the German names of the techniques will no longer help you.

For some terms exist in the translation different spellings or designations, but the meaning of these is usually the same. Nobody can ask you to acquire the complete Japanese language for the training. That would be wasted effort anyway, since you actually only need a fraction of it. There are some basic terms that you should gradually internalize. Here is a small, categorical overview of the most important of them.

General terms and greeting

A few names, which one is best for you heard beforebefore you start your first training session. Otherwise you can of course also learn these on site.

Basic terms for training

You need these terms for Your daily trainingas the sensei will use these and other karate terms to define the techniques. The numbers are necessary because the techniques are often repeated several times in the group, with the sensei counting out loud.

Terms for fighting techniques

These karate terms and techniques are needed very often. You should therefore also learn these in the first few weeks of your training.

Basic terms for practice fights

These terms are less interesting if you are a beginner. They gain importance when you join your first exam approaches or wants to take part in a competition.