GoJuRyu Karate Terms and Kanji

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations
Karate Terms
& Translations
G J Ry Kara Te D no Sen Mon Y Go
Researched & Compiled by Bruce A. Brunger

(B.A. in Japanese Language)
Source: The Modern Readers Japanese-English Character Dictionary by Andrew Nelson, Ph.D.
(1)
Copyright 2004/2005 by Bruce A. Brunger. All Rights Reserved. Prepared for the exclusive use of Cornell Watsons Martial Arts Center. Used and distributed with permission of the copyright holder. The Cornell Watson Martial Arts Center name and logo are the property of the Cornell Watson Martial Arts Center and may not be copied or used without permission. This work may not be copied, reproduced, altered, stored or distributed without the prior written permission of the copyright holder and Cornell Watsons Martial Arts Center.
Table of Contents
Introduction & Pronunciation Guide .. 3 General Terms & Phrases ... 7 Names of Stances .. 16 Names of Blocks ... 20 Names of Strikes ... 33 Names of Kicks ..... 37 Names of Kata ... 39 Miscellaneous Terms ..... 43 Names of Schools of Japanese Martial Arts .. 49
(2)
Introduction
This compilation has been carefully researched and prepared to help you learn basic terms used in Gjry Karate, the nuances and meanings behind the original Japanese terms, and to aid your correct pronunciation of the Japanese terms. For translating the Chinese (or kanji) characters of the Japanese terms and defining the root meanings of the characters, the excellent dictionary, The Modern Readers Japanese-English Character Dictionary by Andrew Nelson, Ph.D. was used for its thoroughness and conciseness in explaining Japanese words and the meaning of the kanji characters. For those who are interested in studying Japanese words and the kanji characters, there is no finer reference than Nelsons Dictionary. In addition, the terms were also reviewed for accuracy with native Japanese speakers, and proofread by Sensei Cornell Watson (Shihan) of the Cornell Watson Martial Arts Center. Therefore the resulting compilation is believed to be an accurate and authoritative representation of the correct terms, and will be a great supplement to your study of Gjry Karate. You can also make these into flash cards to review and memorize. It is hoped that this guide will become a source to which you will refer often, and help you to gain a deeper appreciation for the richness, eloquence, nuances and context of the Japanese language as used in Gjry Karate.
Japanese Pronunciation Guide

This section will explain the basics of correctly pronouncing Japanese words. Spoken Japanese consists of simple syllables, generally consisting of a vowel, or a consonant plus a vowel. There are few complex consonant clusters. All vowels and consonants have consistent pronunciation. Consonants are crisply pronounced. Care should be taken when pronouncing Japanese words, as one slip of the tongue may result in saying a word incorrectly as gibberish, or perhaps saying an entirely different Japanese word altogether. Throughout this guide, both the literal English transliteration of the Japanese pronunciation is provided, along with a more phonetic spelling of the Japanese pronunciation to ensure that you pronounce the words correctly. JAPANESE VOWELS (Ah-Ee-Uu-Eh-Oh) Vowels are always pronounced the same way; long vowels (usually marked in English transliteration with a bar over the vowel (for example, ) or as two vowels (ou) are simply longer in duration (actually two full syllables), but the sound itself doesnt change.
A = pronounced Ah as in father I = pronounced Ee as in eat or each U = pronounced Oo as in food or zoo E = pronounced Eh as in get or Ted O = pronounced Oh as in Ohio YA = pronounced Yah as in Yahoo YU = pronounced Yuu as in You or Universe ( = pronounced Yoh as in Yolk YO )
Some Vowel pronunciation examples: Karate (Kah-Rah-Teh NOT Kuh-Ra-Tee) Ichi (Ee-chee NOT It-chi) Ueno (Oo-Eh-Noh --- a place in Tokyo)
(3)
CONSONANTS ( WITH VOWEL COMBINATIONS ) There are about 16 basic consonant types in Japanese which are combined with 8 vowels to create over 88 different sounds in Japanese. The basic consonants in Japanese are fairly straightforward, with only a few exceptions. Pronunciation should always be done clearly. The consonant sounds with the corresponding vowels are shown below:
A Ka Sa Ta Na Ha Ma Ya Ra Wa Ga Za Da Ba Pa Basic Vowel Sounds E O -YA -YU Ke Ko Kya Kyu Se So Sha Shu Te To Cha Chu Ne No Nya Nyu He Ho Hya Hyu Me Mo Mya Myu Yo Ri Re Ro Rya Ryu Wo Gi Gu Ge Go Gya Gyu Ji Zu Ze Zo Ja Jyu Zi Dzu De Do Bi Bu Be Bo Bya Byu Pi Pu Pe Po Pya Pyu (No combinations, just an ending nsound, same sound as the n in New) I Ki Shi Chi Ni Hi Mi U Ku Su Tsu Nu Fu Mu Yu Ru -YO Kyo Sho Cho Nyo Hyo Myo Ryo Gyo Jo Byo Pyo
K S T N H M Y R W G Z or J D or Z B P N
Consonant Pronunciation Guide The following are some common consonant sounds with actual examples in Japanese speech.
Consonant Pronunciation
Ka Ki Ku Ke Ko Kya Kyu Kyo Sa Shi Su Se So Sha Shu Sho Ta Chi Tsu Te To Cha Chu Cho Kah (like the sound of a crow, or corn Cob) Kee (as in the word key) Koo (as in the word cookoo) Keh (as in the word kept) Koh (as in the word Cocoa) Keeyah Keeyu (as in the word Cute) Keeyoh (as in the word Tokyo Sah (as in the word saw) Shee (as in the word Sheep) Soo (as in the girls name Suzie) Seh (as in the word Set) Soh (as in the word Sew or Sewing) Shaw (as in the word Shaman) Shoo (as in the word Shoe) Shoh (as in the word Show) Tah (as in the word Tick-Tock or Talk) Chee (as in Cheetos or Cheese) Tsoo (the TS sound of Tse-tse fly) Teh (as in Teddy Bear) Toh (as in Toad or Toe) Chaw (as in Chalk ) Choo (as in Chew or Choose) Choh (as in Chosen or Choke) (4)
Basic Consonant Sounds
Japanese Example
Karate or Kake Kihon or Ki-Ai Kumite Ken or Uke or Kake Kohai Kyakk Kyukei Taikyoku Sanchin or Osae Shiko dachi or Shichi Ebisu (a place in Tokyo) Seza or Sensei or Sempai Mokuso or Haisoku Shorisha Shuto Basho or Shokken Kata or O-Tagai ni Dachi or Uchi Zenkutsu Dachi Karate or Kumite or Nukite Haito or Kakato or Shuto Chaku Chudan or Haichu Chotto (Continued on next page)
T-Series
S-Series
K-Series
Consonant Pronunciation Guide ( Continued )

Consonant Pronunciation Guide
Ha Hi Fu He Ho Hya Hyu Hyo Na Ni Nu Ne No Nya Nyu Nyo Ma Mi Mu Me Mo Mya Myu Myo Ra Ri Ru Re Ro Rya Ryu Ryo Ya Yu Yo Wa Wo Ga Gi G-Series Gu Ge Go Gya Gyu Gyo Hah (as in laughing Ha) Hee (as in Heat or Heap) Foo (actually a softer sound closer to Huu) Heh (as in Hem or Hemlock) Hoh (as in Hoe or Hope) HeeYah HeeYuu (as in the name Hugh) HeeYoh Nah (as in Nominate or Viet Nam) Nee (as in Knee or Need) Nuu (as in New or Knew) Neh (as in Net ) Noh (as in No or Know) NeeYah (as in Kenya) NeeYuu (as in New) NeeYoh Mah (as in Mom or Mama) Mee (as in Me or Meek) Moo (as in Move ) Meh (as in Men or Mental) Moh (as in Mow or Motion) MeeYah MeeYuu (as in Music) MeeYoh Rah (as in Rod or Raw) Ree (as in Reed or Greed) Roo (as in Kangaroo) Reh (as in Red or Rent or Bread) Roh (as in Road or Rope or Broke) ReeYah (as in Diarrhea ) ReeYuu (as in Reunion) ReeYoh (as in Curio or Rio De Janeiro) Yah (as in Yard) Yoo (as in You or Universe) Yoh (as in Yogurt) Wah (as in Watch or Wall) Woh (as in Woe is Me or Whoa) Gah (as in God or Got) Ghee (as in Guitar) Goo (as in Goop or Goof) Gheh (as in Get) Goh (as in Goat or Go) GeeYah (as in GeeYuu (as in GeeYoh (as in (5)
Japanese Example
Hachi or Haito Hira-Ken or Hiza Fumi-komi Heisoku Dachi Hokkaido (place in Japan) Hyaku Hyuga Hyoka or Hyoron Nageru Nihon Nippon Nukite Neko Ashi Dachi Nomu Tenya wanya Nyugakku or Gyunyu Nyobo Mawashi Geri Miyagi Muri Meiso Mokuso Myaku Daimyo or Myoban Ramen Geri Ruiji or Rujiten Rei or Renshu Ushiro or Roku Ryakudatsu Goju-Ryu or Ryukyu Ryoshin or Ryoken Yamato Yuki Yoku Mawashi-Geri Karate wo manabimasu Gakusei or Ganbaru Karate Gi or Giri or Gishiki Guntai or Gushiken Gentei or Geta Gojuryu Gyaku Gyunikku Ningyo (Continued on next page)
W-Series
Y-Series
R-Series
M-Series
N-Series
H-Series
Consonant Pronunciation Guide ( Continued )

Consonant
Za Ji Zu Ze Zo Jya (Ja) Jyu (Ju) Jyo (Jo) Da Zi Dzu De Do Ba Bi Bu Be Bo Bya Byu Byo Pa Pi Pu Pe Po Pya Pyu Pyo Z or J-Series
Pronunciation Guide
Zah (as in Zombie ) Jee (as in Jeep) Zoo (as in Zoo or Zoom) Zeh (as in Zen) Zoh (as in Bozo) JeeYah (as in Jockey or John) JeeYuu (as in the name Hugh) JeeYoh (as in Joke Joan or Joe) Dah (as in Dominate) Zhee (as in Zebra) Dzoo Deh (as in Destitute) Doh (as in Homer Simpsons Doh! or Dough) Bah (as in Scrooges Bah Humbug or Bottom) Bee (as in Bumble Bee or Beach) Boo (as in Boo or Boom) Beh (as in Bed or Beckon) Boh (as in Boat or Bone) BeeYah (as in Beyond) BeeYuu (as in Beautiful) BeeYoh Pah (as in Papa or Pajama) Pee (as in People or Peace) Poo (as in Pool or Harpoon) Peh (as in Pedestrian) Poh (as in Postal or Pole) PeeYah PeeYuu (as in Pupil or Purify) PeeYoh
Japanese Example
Seiza Kanji or Jissai Kanarazu or Zutsu Zen Zosa or Zowai Jyakuten or Jama Judo or Jubun or Gojuryu Jodan or Jozu Damasu or Daraku Desho or Dento Karate D or Dojo or Dzo Baka or Basho Bijin or Bikkuri Budo or Buji or Burei Benky or Betsu or Bengoshi Bodai or Sasebo or Bonsai Sanbyaku Byki Byteki Bysei Chuto-hanpa Pinto Sempuki Peko-peko or Peten Sampo or Tampopo Happyaku Happyo
Notes:
All syllables receive the same amount of stress or emphasis (that means pronouncing Japanese without any stress or emphasis.) Examples: g-j-ry NOT go-JU-ryu zen-ku-tsu-da-chi NOT zen-KU-tsu-DA-chi ka-ra-te NOT Ka-RA-te ne-ko-a-shi-da-chi NOT NE-ko-a-SHI-DA-chi You can almost always divide the syllables after a vowel. (exception: some syllables end in n (shinbun = newspaper) (Nihon = Japan); sometimes a consonant is doubled (Roppongi Tokyo place; or Hatchbori Tokyo place), which actually represents two syllables (pronounced with a slight pause Roppon-gi; Hatchou-bo-ri).
P-Series
B-Series
D or Z Series
(6)
General Terms & Phrases

Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s)
G
Goh
J
Joo
Ry
Reeyoo
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S)

Strength; Firmness, Rigid, Bravery, Courage, Valor, Hardness, Toughness Gentleness, Softness, Tender, Graceful, Flexible, Supple Style, Fashion, School (of Thought), Manner, Way (of Doing), Fashion, Current, Flow
The Strong and Gentle Way The Way of Hard and Soft The Tough but Graceful Style
Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters
Kara
KahRah
Te
Teh
D
Doh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Empty Hand Open Hand Fighting without Weapons The Way (or Path) of the Empty Hand

Empty, Sky, Open, Vacant, Hollow Hand(s) Way, Path, Road, Journey, Teachings, Course, Duty, Morality
Kata
KahTah
Set Form or Format, Set Pattern, Particular Style, Model, Type NOTE: It is interesting to know that the upper portion of the character ( or Kei ) means punishment. As it is placed over the other character for ground, earth or Soil ( or Doh ), this combined meaning connotes an image of strictly imposed standards, physically demanding practice, or physically punishing routines performed outside on the ground.
A set pattern or sequence of defensive and offensive movements and techniques, performed alone against imaginary opponents
Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters
D
Doh
J
Joh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Practice) Hall Gymnasium Arena

(Literally: A Place for Learning The Way)
Way, Path, Road, Journey, Teachings, Course, Duty, Morality
Place, Grounds, Ring, Site, Space, Scene
(7)
General Terms & Phrases (Continued)

Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s)
Sen
Sen
Sei
Say
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Instructor Teacher Schoolmaster Master Doctor

(Literally: One who has lived before you, in other words, One who has knowledge and experience that you do not yet have. )
Preceding, Beyond, Prior, Earlier than, Head (of a line, etc.), The First
Birth, Live, Life, Existence, Cultivation, To Create, To Produce
De
Deh
Shi
Shee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Pupil Student Disciple Follower Apprentice
Younger Brother, Faithful Service to those who are Older, Brotherly Affection
Child, Offspring, The Young, A Youngster, Small
Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s)
Sen
Sen (or Sem)
Pai
Pie
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Ones) Senior or Elder (a) Senior Student One who Out-Ranks You
Preceding, Beyond, Prior, Earlier than, Head (of a line, etc.), The First
Fellow, Companion, Man
K
Koh
Hai
High
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Ones) Junior or Subordinate (a) Junior Student One who is Below your Rank
Rear, Back, Successor, Following
Fellow, Companion, Man
Rei
Ray
Shiki
SheeKee (or Shkee)
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Bowing) Ceremony (a) Rite
Salute, Bow, Show Courtesy, Appreciation, Propriety, Etiquette, Manners
Ceremony, Rite, Function
(8)

Sei
Say
Za
Zah
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Sit Straight Sit Correctly Sit Quietly Be Seated ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Closing Ones Eyes in Silent Meditation Quiet Reflection
Straight, Right, Proper, Correct, Perfectly
Sit Down, Squat, Settle, Seat, Be Stable
Moku
Moh Koo
S
Soh
Keeping Silence, Saying Nothing
Thought, Idea, Imagination, Consideration
O Tagai ni
Oh Tah Gah Ee Nee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Toward Each Other Mutually Together
Respectfully Toward Each Other, Mutually to Each Other, Reciprocally
Rei
Ray
Salute, Bow, Show Courtesy, Appreciation, Show Respect, Propriety, Etiquette, Manners
(to) Respectfully Bow (towards)
Shmen ni Taishite
Shoh Men Ni Tai Shee Teh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Please) Face (toward) the Front
Toward or in the direction of the Front (of the Dojo where the Founders Pictures are displayed in the honored stand called the Kamiza)
(9)

Sensei ni Taishite
Sen Say Nee Tai Shee Teh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Please) Face (toward) the Teacher
Toward (in the direction of) the Teacher or Instructor
Y
Yoh
i
Ee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Used as a Command) Get Ready! (Be Prepared!)
Business, Work, Function, Errand, Use, Service
Will, Intention, Thought, Idea, Desire
Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters
Hajime (or Haijimeru)

Hah Jee Meh ( Haji Meh Roo )
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Used as a Command) Begin! Start! Begin at Your Own Pace
()
To Start, Begin, Commence
Yame (or Yameru)

Yah Meh (Yah Meh Roo)
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Used as a Command) Stop! Cease!
()
To Stop, Cease, Quit, End, Terminate
Narande
Nahrah n Deh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Used as a Command) Line up!
To line up, to form a line, to arrange side-by-side
(10)

Sei
Say
Retsu
Reh Tsoo
Arrange, Assemble
Line, Row
(to) Line Up (by Rank)
Mawatte
Mah Wah Teh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Used as a Command) Turn Around!
To Turn Around, Spin, Rotate, Go Around
Ki
Kee
Ai
Eye
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (a) Fighting Yell (a) Striking Shout (a) Forceful Puff of Breath (a) Focused Shout from ones Spiritual Energy
Spirit, Force, Energy, Mind, Heart, Feeling, Temper, Mood, Disposition, Intention
Meet, Join Together, Match (with), Unite, Add Up, Mix, Combine
Kara
KahRah
Te
Teh
Ka
Kah

Empty, Sky, Open, Vacant, Hollow Hand(s) Person, Profession
(a) Practitioner of Karate
Shi
Shee
Han
Hahn
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Master Instructor Model Instructor of Technical Skills
Teacher, Master, Example, Model, Pattern, Exemplary Person
Example, Model, Pattern
(11)

Gi
Ghee
Clothing; What One Wears
(ones) Karate Uniform
Obi
Oh Bee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (ones) Karate Belt (Signifying your Rank)
Belt, Sash, Band
Hai
High
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Yes Yes Sir I Agree I Understand (and Ill Do it)
Yes, Acknowledgement, Affirmative
Iie
Ee Ee Eh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) No No Way No Sir I Dont Agree
No, Not, Negative
Kumi
Koo Mee
Te
Teh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Fighting Sparring (Jiyu Kumite = Freestyle Sparring)
To Cross, Unite with, Grapple with, Braid Together
Hand or Hands
(12)

Ki
Kee
Hon
Hohn
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Basic Basis Standard Fundamental
Origin, Basis, Foundation
Main, True, Real, Regular, Normal, Source, The Root of
I
Ee
D
Doh
Move, Change, Shift, Drift, Transfer, Divert, Pour into
Stir, Move, Shift, Shake, Set in Motion, Mobilize, Activity, Fluctuate
Movement
Mae
Mah Eh
Front, Before, Ahead, Forepart
Front
In Front
Ushiro
Uu Shee Roh
Back, Rear, Behind
Back
Behind
Yoko
Yoh Koh
Side, Flank, Horizontal Direction
(to the) Side
Sideways
(13)

Migi
Mee Ghee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (to ones) Right (the) Right
Right, Right-hand, Rightward
(the) Right Side
Hidari
Hee Dah Ree
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (to ones) Left (the) Left
Left, Left-hand, Leftward
(the) Left Side
Mawashi
Mah Wah Shee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Around Roundhouse (kick, etc.)
To Rotate, Go Around
Dai
Die
Ichi
Ee Chee
Numeral, Number, The (First, Second, etc.), Primary, Foremost, The Greatest
One, First
The First (of a series)
Dai
Die
Ni
Nee
Numeral, Number, The (First, Second, etc.), Primary, Foremost, The Greatest
Two, Second
The Second (of a Series)
(14)

J
Jyoh
Dan
Dahn
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Upper (Face) Level
Up, Upper, Upward, Top
Level, Stage, Degree, Extent, Class, Rank
Ch
Chew
Dan
Dahn
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Middle (Chest & Stomach) Level
Middle, Center, Core
Ge
Geh
Dan
Dahn
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Lower (Groin & Leg) Level
Lower, Bottom, Downward
(15)
Names of Stances Used in Gjry Karate

Dachi
Dah Chee
Way of Standing, Stance
Stance
Kamae
Kah Mah Eh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Take a ) Posture Pose
Posture, Pose, Assume a Stance, Be Ready For
Heisoku
Hay Soh Koo
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Closed Foot Stance

(Placing feet together parallel with no distance between them, with heels and toes and knees close together)

Closed Feet Stance
Musubi
Moo Soo Bee
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) V Stance (The) Bound Stance

(Placing the balls of both feet out at 45. Heels remain together. Your feet are in a V position. Your knees are straight and instead of being locked are in a natural relaxed position. Used when standing at attention.)

Joined Together, Bound Together Stance
Heik
Hay Koh
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Parallel Stance

(Your feet are one foot length apart or even better, feet should be placed at about shoulder distance. Knees are straight and instead of being locked are in a naturally relaxed position.)

Parallel Rows Stance
(16)
Names of Stances Used in Gjry Karate ( Continued )

Soto
Soh Toh
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Outward Stance

(Starting from the Heik Dachi [Parallel Stance] Lift the ball of the feet and place your toes 45 outward (this stance is traditionally called Soto Hachi Monji Dachi). Your knees again are straight and instead of being locked are in a natural relaxed position.)

Outside of, Outward, Away (from) Stance
Uchi
Uu Chee
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Inside Stance

(Traditionally called Uchi Hachi Monji Dachi, this stance is further moved out with the heels but deeper past a parallel stance [heels spread out 45]. The front of the feet are turned 45 inward.)

Inside of, Within, Inward, In Toward Stance
Shiko
Shee Koh
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Horse Stance or Straddle Leg Stance

(In the standard Shiko Dachi in this posture, the upper legs (thigh area) are bent far past 45 and showing a strong and deep stance.The knees should be directly above the feet and the back should be slightly arched but straight and the hips should be pushed back into a sitting position. In Shiko Dachi the feet are pointed slightly outward to 45.) .

Literally Four Thighs (In Reference to the Quadriceps Muscles of the Thighs) Stance
Japanese Term Pronunciation
Sanchin
Sahn Cheen
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Immovable Stance

(The root and substance to Gjry, the stance absorbs energy from the ground up and into your body and using its energy to your advantage, not just gripping and holding onto the floor. Starting from Heiko Dachi, place the right foot one-foot length ahead of the spot it was at (right heel just on the imaginary line that its toe ended at). Turn the right heel out 45, next bring the right foot back a bit until the heel rests on the same horizontal line as the toes of the left foot. While grabbing the ground with the feet in a twisting out motion, the knees should be slightly bent inward as to protect the groin area from attack; the buttocks pushed forward, the inside and outside of the thighs tightened. Your center of gravity is located at the point midway between both feet.)
Kanji Character(s)

Three Battles Stance (The Battle of Mastery between the Mind, Body and Spirit)
(17)

Zenkutsu
Zen Koo Tsoo
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Forward Leaning Stance or Front Stance

(One of the strongest stances, with the center of gravity being midway between both feet. One way to achieve this position is to start from Shiko Dachi. Turn the right leg straight, without raising the head level, square the hips and shoulders into a linear posture with the left leg that will be considered the front. Bend the left knee so as the front foot cannot be seen if looking down, all the while keeping the right leg (back leg) straight. Keep the back sustained in a straight position perpendicular to the floor. The front foot should be turned slightly inward. Be careful not to place too much weight on the front foot, and the front foot and back foot are not on the same imaginary line they are about four foot lengths in distance apart, and about shoulder width.)
Kanji Character(s)

Front Bend, Lean Stance
Kkutsu
Koh Koo Tsoo
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Rear Leaning Stance or Back Stance

(This stance begins directly from Zenkutsu Dachi. From this position, turn to the right 90 [as in Sanseiru] on the balls of both feet. Both feet should now be facing to the right of the original direction however the head stays turned in the direction it was originally. Kkutsu Dachi is also the name of a back stance more often found in the Shotokan style however is performed completely different..)
Kanji Character(s)

Rear Bend, Lean Stance
Han Zenkutsu
Hahn Zen Koo Tsoo
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Half-Forward Leaning Stance or Half-Front Stance

(Begins from Heiko Dachi. Step out with the right side, Te Obi between one half the distance and one footstep less than Zenkutsu Dachi. This position is close to the same posture of Zenkutsu Dach . Leg tension shall remain the same as shall back and hip position.)
Kanji Character(s)

Half Front Bend, Lean Stance
(18)

Neko Ashi
NehKoh Ah Shee
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Cat Foot Stance

( Neko Ashi Dachi is the essential fighting stance of Gjry, being one of the two major stances [the other being Sanchin Dachi] . Place the right exactly one-foot length forward. Then lift the heel of the front foot off of the ground, and bending the knee of the front leg. Bending the back leg, push the hips back as if to sit down in a chair. 70% to 80% of your weight should be distributed on the back leg while 20% to 30% remains on the front. From the side and front view, this posture resembles that of a cat in combat or of a person sitting in a chair thats not there.)
Kanji Character(s)

Cat Foot Stance
Moto
Moh Toh
Dachi
Dah Chee
Kanji Character(s)

Basis, Foundation, Source, Root, Origin Stance
(The) Base Stance or Rooted Stance

(This stance has the foot placement similar to Neko Ashi Dachi, but with both feet flat on the ground.)
Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters Japanese Term Pronunciation
Ti Ji
Tee Jee
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Inverted T Stance

(This stance is in the posture of an inverted T. From Heisoku Dachi place the left foot horizontally behind the right foot so as the heel of the right foot is in the center of the left foot [a 90 angle]. )
Kanji Character(s)
T
T Letter, Character (The Letter T) Stance
Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters Japanese Term Pronunciation
Ksa
Koh Sah
Dachi
Dah Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Cross-Leg Stance or Twist Stance

(Used for turning in many items from Kihon Ido to Advanced Kata. The front of your left knee will be fitted into the back of your right knee.)
Kanji Character(s)

Intersection, Crossing Stance
(19)
Names of Blocks Used in Gjry Karate

Uke
Uu Keh Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (a) Block (of a strike, kick, etc.)
or
Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Uke
Uu Keh
Waza
Wah Zah

Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit) Technique, Craft, Skill, Feat, Performance
Blocking Techniques Blocking Skills
Age
Ah Geh
Uke
Uu Keh

Raising, Upward, Rising Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Upward Block Rising Block
Jdan
Joh Dahn
Uke
Uu Keh

Upper Level Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Upper Level Block
(20)
Names of Blocks Used in Gjry Karate ( Continued )

Yoko
Yoh Koh
Uke
Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Middle Block Side Block Sideways Block
Side, Flank, Horizontal Direction
Chdan
Chew Dahn
Uke
Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Middle Block Mid-Level Block

Middle Level Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Chdan Soto
Chew Dahn Soto
Uke
Uu Keh

Middle Level Outer Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Middle Outside-In Block
Chdan Uchi
Chew Dahn Uu Chee
Uke
Uu Keh

Middle Level Inside Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Middle Inside-Out Block
(21)

Gedan
Geh Dahn
Barai
Bah Rah Ee

Bottom, Lower Level Sweep Out of the Way, Clear Out, Wipe Off, Brush Off, Drive Away, Wield Sideways
Lower Sweeping Block
Harai
Hah Rai
Otoshi
Oh Toh Shee
Uke
Uu Keh

Sweep Out of the Way, Clear Out, Wipe Off, Brush Off, Drive Away, Wield Sideways Dropping, Going Downward Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Dropping Circular Block Descending Sweeping Block
Soto
Soh Toh
Uke
Uuo Keh
Outside of, Outward, Away (from)
Outside Block Outside Forearm Block
Uchi
Uu Chee
Uke
Uu Keh
Inside of, Within, Inward, In Toward
Inside Block Inside Forearm Block
(22)

Shut
Shoo Toh
Uke
Oo Keh

Hand Knife Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Knife Hand Block
Shut
Shoo Toh
Jdan
Jyoh Dahn
Uke
Uu Keh

Hand Knife Up, Upper, Upward, Top Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Upper Knife Hand Block
Shut
Shoo Toh
Gedan
Geh Dahn
Uke
Uu Keh

Hand Knife Down, Lower Level Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Lower Knife Hand Block
Omote
Oh Moh Teh
Kote
Koh Teh
Uke
Uu Keh

Surface, Exterior Forearm Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Outer Forearm Block
(23)

Sh
Shoh
Tei
Tei
Uke
Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Palm Heel Block Heel of the Palm Block

Rule, Administer, Conduct Bottom, Base, Sole
Sh Tei
Shoh Teh Ee
Jdan
Jyoh Dahn
Uke
Uu Keh

Rule, Bottom Administer, Base Conduct Sole Up, Upper, Upward, Top Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Upper Palm Block
Sh Tei
Shoh Teh Ee
Chdan
Chew Dahn
Uke
Uu Keh

Rule, Bottom Administer, Base Conduct Sole Middle, Mid-Level
Middle Palm Block
Sh Tei
Shoh Teh Ee
Otoshi
Oh Toh Shee
Uke
Uu Keh

Rule, Bottom Administer, Base Conduct Sole Dropping, Going Downward Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Open Hand Dropping Block
(24)

Ko
Koh
Ken
Ken
Uke
Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Arch Fist Block Or Chicken Wrist Block

(Note: Sometimes this is just called Ko-Uke[Wrist Block], without using the Fist [Ken] character)

Arc, Arch Fist
Hai
High
T
Toh
Uke
Uu Keh

Back, Back Side, Ridge Sword, Saber, Knife
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Ridgehand Block

(Using the portion of the hand between the knuckles of the index finger to the web of the thumb; not to be confused with Shuto, the outer edge of the hand along the little finger and outer palm)
Jdan
Jyoh Dahn
Jji
Jyuu Jee
Uke
Uu Keh

Up, Upper, Upward, Top Cross, X-Shape Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Upper Cross Block
Gedan
Geh Dahn
Jji
Jyuu Jee
Uke
Uu Keh

Down, Lower Level Cross, X-Shape Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Lower Cross Block
(25)

Hiki
Hee Kee
Uke
Uu Keh

Pulling; Influence, Draw, Jerk, Drag, Lead, Haul, Tug Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Pulling/Grasping Block
Hiji
Hee Jee
Uke
Uu Keh
The Elbow
Elbow Block
Hiji
Hee Jee
Uchi
Uu Chee
Uke
Uu Keh

The Elbow Hit, Strike, Blow
Elbow Strike Block
Hiza
Hee Zah
Uke
Uu Keh
The Knee or Lap
Knee Block
(26)

Sune
Suu Neh
Uke
Uu Keh
The Shin, The Lower Front of the Leg
Shin Block
Yumi
Yoo Mee
Uke
Uu Keh
Bow (for shooting Arrows),Bow-Shape
Bow Block
Soku
Soh Koo
Tei
Teh Ee
Uke
Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Sole of the Foot Block

(Note: In some Karate Glossaries, the first two characters Soku and Tei are sometimes reversed in order to read as Tei Soku Uke)
The Foot, Feet
Bottom, Base, Sole
Chdan Uchi
Chew Dahn Uu Chee
Uke
Uu Keh
Gedan
Geh Dahn
Barai
Bah Rah Ee
Middle, Mid-Level
Inside, Inward

Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit) Bottom, Lower Level Sweep Out of the Way, Clear Out, Wipe Off, Brush Off, Drive Away, Wield Sideways
Middle Inside-out Block & Lower Sweeping Block
(27)

Gedan
Geh Dahn
Uchi
Uu Chee
Barai
Bah Rah Ee

Bottom, Lower Level Inside, Inward Sweep Out of the Way, Clear Out, Wipe Off, Brush Off, Drive Away, Wield Sideways
Outside downward block (open hand)
Sune
Suu Neh
Uke
Uu Keh
The Shin, The Lower Front of the Leg
Shin Block
Ura
Uu Rah
Uke
Uu Keh
The Back, The Reverse Side
Backhand Block
Mawashi
Mah Wah Shee
Uke
Uu Keh
To Rotate, Go Around
Roundhouse Block
(28)

Moro
Moh Roh
Te
Teh
Uke
Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Augmented (TwoHand) Block

(Note: the two characters for Morote are also pronounced Sshu, meaning Both Hands)
A Set, A Pair
Hands
Sukui
Soo Koo Ee
Uke
Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Scoop Block Scooping Block
Scoop; Scooping
Nagashi
Nah Gah Shee
Uke
Uu Keh
Dashing, Shedding, Washing Away, Flowing, Swaying
Sweeping Block
Ksa
Koh Sah
Uke
Uu Keh
Intersection, Crossing
Cross Block (Arms crossed at the wrist)
(29)

Soku
Soh Koo
Tei
Teh Ee
Osae
Oh Sah Eh
Uke
Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Pressing Block with the Sole of the Foot

( Using the sole of the foot to press down hard against the attacker's ankle, as in a yoko geri. )
The Foot, Feet

Bottom, Base, Sole Hold Down, Press Down, Suppress Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Soku
Soh Koo
Tei
Teh Ee
Harai
Hah Rah Ee
Uke
Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Sole of the Foot Block

(Foot swung from outside to inside)
The Foot, Feet

Bottom, Base, Sole Sweep Out of the Way, Clear Out, Wipe Off, Brush Off, Drive Away, Wield Sideways Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Hai
High
Soku
Soh Koo
Barai
Bah Rah Ee
Uke
Uu Keh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Instep Block

(Foot swung from inside to outside)
Back, Back Side, Ridge

The Foot, Feet Sweep Out of the Way, Clear Out, Wipe Off, Brush Off, Drive Away, Wield Sideways Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Otoshi
Oh Toh Shee
Uke
Uu Keh

Dropping, Descending, Going Downward Receive, Catch, Undergo, Be Exposed (to), Preparedness, Stop or Parry a Blow, Block, Sustain (a hit)
Dropping Block Or Descending Block
(30)

Kake
Kah Keh
Uke
Uu Keh
To Hang On, Trap, Hang up, Play Against, Put On, Hook onto, Catch onto, Snag
Hook Block or Hooking Block
Uchi
Uu Chee
Yoko
Yoh Koh
Uke
Uu Keh
Inside, Inward
Side, Sideways
Inside Forearm Block
Tettsui
Teh Tsoo Ee
Uke
Uu Keh
Iron, Steel Hammer Mallet
Hammerfist Block
Osae
Oh Sah Eh
Uke
Uu Keh
Hold Down, Press Down, Suppress
Pressing Block
(31)

Kuri
Koo Ree
Uke
Uu Keh
Reel, Wind, Spin, Turn
Inside-Out Circular Elbow Block
Tora
Toh Rah
Guchi
Goo Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Two-Hand Roundhouse Block Double open hand circular block with palm heel strike
(Tora guchi is very common technique in Okinawan-style karate, with roots from Chinese style fighting arts. It is always performed in neko-ashi dachi (cat stance). Point here is to use your hands in close distance confrontation to block and then strike or grab the opponents throat and testicles. This is very effective response in close distance.)

Tiger Mouth, Maw
(32)
Names of Strikes Used in Gjry Karate ( Continued )

Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s) Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters
K
Koh
Geki
Geh Kee
Waza
Wah Zah
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Striking Techniques

(NOTE: The nuance of the word kogeki is not simply to attack but rather to crush, cut down, or destroy in a devastating way.)

Attack, Assault, Offensive Destroy, Conquer, to Defeat Technique, Craft, Ability, Feat, Skill, Performance
Tsuki
Tsoo Kee
Waza
Wah Zah

Thrust, Punch, Strike Against, Poke, Stab, Knock Technique, Craft, Ability, Feat, Skill, Performance
Punching Techniques
Sei
Say
Ken
Ken
Tsuki
Tsoo Kee

Straight On, Straightforward, Exactness, Correct, Proper, Fist Thrust, Punch, Strike Against, Poke, Stab, Knock
Squared Fist Strike Full, Regular Fist Strike
Shita
Sh Ta
Tsuki
Tsoo Kee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Upside-Down Punch Or Reverse Strike

(Striking fist remains palm up. When contact is made your knuckles should, in a whip like motion, push up and into the opponents diaphragm then pull back down and out.)

Down Thrust, Punch, Strike Against, Poke, Stab, Knock
Hai
High
T
Toh
Tsuki
Tsoo Kee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Open Ridge Hand Strike, with palm facing down
(Using the portion of the hand between the knuckles of the index finger to the web of the thumb; not to be confused with Shuto, the outer edge of the hand along the little finger and outer palm)

Back, Back Side, Ridge Sword, Saber, Knife Thrust, Punch, Strike Against, Poke, Stab, Knock
(33)

Ura
Uu Rah
Ken
Ken
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Back Fist (Strike)

( NOTE: Also referred to as Ura Uchi[] or Back Strike )
The Back, The Reverse Side
Fist
Shu
Shoo
T
Toh
Tsuki
Tsoo Kee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Sword Hand Strike or Knifehand Strike

(Palm facing up, with the striking surface being the outside edge of the hand)

The Hand Sword, Saber, Knife Thrust, Punch, Strike Against, Poke, Stab, Knock
Furi
Foo Rhee
Uchi
Uu Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Swinging Strike or Whiplike Strike

(Using the back of the knuckle as the striking point. )

Wave, Shake, Wag, Swing Hit, Strike, Beat, Knock, Smite, Pound in, Punch
Tettsui
Teh Tsoo Ee
Uchi
Uu Chee
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Hammer Strike

(Resembling swinging a hammer, this closed fist technique is executed using the fleshy side of the fist as the striking point.)

Iron, Steel Hammer Mallet Hit, Strike, Beat, Knock, Smite, Pound in, Punch
Ippon
Eeppohn
Ken
Ken

One Cylindrical Object (Finger) Fist
One Knuckle Fist

(A fist with one knuckle[the first knuckle] extended beyond the others of the fist.)
(34)

Ippon
Eeppohn
Ken
Ken
Naka Daka
Nah Kah Dah Kah
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Middle Knuckle Fist

(A fist with one middle knuckle extended beyond the others of the fist.)

One Cylindrical Object (Finger) Fist Middle High (i.e., Extended Higher in the Middle)
Nuki
Noo Kee
Te
Teh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Spearhand Strike

(The sharp strike of the fingers extended into the soft body parts of your opponent)
Penetrate, Perforate, Shoot Through, Pierce, Braced
Hand(s)
Ippon
Eep pohn
Nuki
Noo Kee
Te
Teh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Single Finger Spearhand Strike

(The sharp strike using only one finger extended into the soft body parts of your opponent)

One Cylindrical Object (Finger) Penetrate, Perforate, Shoot Through, Pierce, Braced Hand(s)
Nihon
Ni Hohn
Nuki
Noo Kee
Te
Teh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Two-Finger Strike

(The sharp strike using only two fingers extended into the eyes of your opponent)

Two Cylindrical Object(s) (Fingers) Penetrate, Perforate, Shoot Through, Pierce, Braced Hand(s)
(35)

Ura
Uu Rah
Ken Mawashi
Ken Mah Wah Shee
Uchi
Oo Chee

The Back, The Reverse Side Fist To Rotate, Go Around Hit, Strike, Beat, Knock, Smite, Pound in, Punch
Flailing Reverse Punch
Ura
Uu Rah
Tei
Teh Ee
Ago
Ah Goh
Uchi
Oo Chee

The Back, The Reverse Side Bottom, Base, Sole Chin, Jaw Hit, Strike, Beat, Knock, Smite, Pound in, Punch
Palm Strike to the Jaw
Hiji
Hee Jee
Yoko
Yoh Koh
Uchi
Oo Chee

The Elbow Side, Sideways Hit, Strike, Beat, Knock, Smite, Pound in, Punch
Side Elbow Strike
(36)
Names of Kicks Used in Gjry Karate ( Continued )

Geri
Geh Ree Geh Ree
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Kick(s) Kicking
or
To Kick
Mae
Mah Eh
Geri
Geh Ree
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Front Kick

(Toes are pointed up and the ball of the foot is used as the contact point)

Front, Forward To Kick
Gedan
Geh Dahn
Geri
Geh Ree
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Groin Kick

(NOTE: Also referred as Kin Geri or Kogen Geri. The foot and the toes are pointed straight to the ground as the knee and leg are brought up for the kick.)

Lower, Groin-Level To Kick
Soto
Soh Toh
Geri
Geh Ree

Outer, Outside To Kick
Outside Kick Outer Reap Kick
Yoko
Yoh Koh
Geri
Geh Ree

Side, Sideways To Kick
Side Snap Kick
(37)
Names of Kicks Used in Gjry Karate ( Continued )

Mawashi
Mah Wah Shee
Geri
Geh Ree
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Roundhouse Kick or Crescent Kick

To Rotate, Go Around To Kick
Kansetsu
Kahn Seh Tsoo
Geri
Geh Ree

Joint (like the knee, elbow, etc.) To Kick
Stomping (Knee) Joint Kick
Sokut
Soh Koo Toh
Geri
Geh Ree
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Blade Edge Kick

(The snap kick that strikes with the outer edge of the foot )

Foot Blade The Outer Edge of the Foot To Kick
Ushiro
Oo Shee Roh
Geri
Geh Ree

Back, Backward, Behind To Kick
Back Kick Backward Kick
(38)
Names of Kata Used in Gjry Karate

Kata
KahTah
Set Form or Format, Set Pattern, Particular Style, Model, Type NOTE: It is interesting to know that the upper portion of the character ( or Kei ) means punishment. As it is placed over the other character for ground, earth or Soil ( or Doh ), this combined meaning connotes an image of strictly imposed standards, physically demanding practice, or physically punishing routines performed outside on the ground.
A set pattern or sequence of defensive and offensive movements and techniques, performed alone against imaginary opponents
Tai
Tie
Kyoku
Kyoh Kuu
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) First Course Beginner Series Main Grounding Maximum The Absolute The Great Supporting Pillar
(From the Tai character in Tai Chi Chuan) Large, Big, Fat, Noble, Burly, Deep, Thick, Great, Grand, Primary, Upper (First)
The Poles, Polar, Polarity, Highest Rank, Extremity, Reach an Extreme, The Acme or Height (of Something), Exceedingly, Very
Geki
Geh Kee
Sai
Sigh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) To Attack & Destroy Smash and Crash

( The Gekisai katas are geared to destroying the attackers body.)
Attack, Defeat, Conquer, Destroy
Break, Smash, Crush, Pulverize, Crumble
(39)
Names of Kata Used in Gjry Karate (Continued)

Sai
Sigh
Fa
Fah
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) To Smash and Tear to Pieces

( The first of the classical combative Kata. Kanryo Higaonna Sensei was taught this Kata, along with the other Kata of Goju-Ryu, while he studied in China)
Break, Smash, Crush, Pulverize, Crumble
Tear, Rip, Rend, Frustrate, Defeat, Crush, Destroy, Burst, Rupture, Breakdown, Wear Out.
San
Sahn
Chin
Cheen
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (The) Three Battles

(Sanchin is seen as the corner stone of Gjry Karate, representing a quest of mastery over Mind, Body and Spirit [thus the three battles]. Sanchin requires control of both internal and external mechanisms, breath control, muscle control, etc.)
Three
Battle or Conflict
Sei
Say
Yun
Yoon
Chin
Cheen
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Control, Suppress and Pull Grasping, Pulling and Unbalancing
(The name Seiyunchin implies the use of techniques to off balance, throw and grapple. Seiyunchin contains close-quartered striking, sweeps, takedowns and throws, but no kicking techniques.)

Control, Regulation, Suppress, Restrain, Hold Back, Limit Pull, Draw, Tug, Haul, Jerk, Drag, Bend, Catch
Battle or Conflict
(40)

Shi
Shee
So
Soh
Chin
Cheen
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Four Directions of Conflict To Destroy in Four Directions

(Shisochin means "battle in four directions". It is of Chinese origin, taught to Kanryo Higaonna by RyuRyuko in China. It employs joint locking and close-quarter fighting. Favored by Miyagi Sensei in his later years, Shisochin also translates as "Four Gates of Conflict". The idea of four directions can come from the performance of the four shotei in four directions. It can also represent the four elements represented in Chinese medicine (Acupuncture is one) of Wood, Fire, Metal and Water with man representing Earth. .)

Four Direction
Battle or Conflict
San Se Ru
Sahn Sheh Roo
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Literally) Thirty Six (The) 36 Hands or Movements

(This kata employs many entry, joint attacks and defenses against kicking. An explanation of this and the other numerically named Kata is that they refer to a systematic method and understanding of certain groupings of vital acupressure points. It is this science that the martial arts was based upon and developed. Feng Yiquan, who lived during the Ming Dynasty (1522-1567) developed this particular method of using variations of "36" forbidden points to defeat his opponents.)
Three Ten Six = Thirty Six (36) (Note: The pronunciation Sanseru is actually closer to the original Chinese language pronunciation than Japanese. In Japanese, this would normally be pronounced as Sanjyuroku)
Se Pai
Seh Pie
Ten Eight = Eighteen (18) (Note: The pronunciation Sepai is actually closer to the original Chinese language pronunciation than Japanese. In Japanese, this would normally be pronounced as Jyuhachi)
(Literally) Eighteen (The) 18 Hands or Movements

(This kata uses many movements that require coordination between the hips and hands, with many varied techniques.)
(41)

Ku
Koo
Ru
Roo
Run
Roon
Fa
Fah
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Holding on Long and Striking Suddenly Holding Your Ground
(This kata employs a great deal of neko-ashi movements and close-quarter evasive fighting techniques. Kururunfa epitomizes the ideals of Go-"hard and Ju-"soft". Stance transitions are quick and explosive while the hands techniques are employed using "muchimi" or a heavy, sticky movement. The 4 kanji for "Kururunfa" suggest a strategy of a reception to an attack, a sense of "sucking" the attack in, perhaps to invite an over-extension of the attack, and then suddenly and abruptly, with devastating effect, destroy the opponent with your own counter strike.)
Long Hold, remain, stay behind, detain Sudden, Abrupt
Tear, Rip, Rend, Frustrate, Defeat, Crush, Destroy, Burst, Rupture, Breakdown, Wear Out.
Sei San
Say Sahn
Ten Three = Thirteen (13) (Note: The pronunciation Seisan is actually closer to the original Chinese language pronunciation than Japanese. In Japanese, this would normally be pronounced as Jyusan)
(Literally) Thirteen (The) 13 Hands or Movements

(Seisan is believed to be the oldest of all Okinawan GojuRyu Kata, and demonstrates the difference between Go (Hard) and Ju (Soft).)
Su
Suu
Pa
Pah
Rin
Reen
Pei
Pay

One Hundred Fog Eight (8)
Again, Chinese-style pronunciation of the characters is used here, rather than the Japanese pronunciation
108 Hands or Movements

(The most advanced kata in Gjry Karate, it contains the greatest number of intricate techniques and variations. It is also known by the older name of Pitchurrin.)
(42)

Ten
Tehn
Sho
Sho
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Turning Palms Rotating Palms

(The second "heishu" kata in Goju-Ryu, Tensho is derived from the Chinese form "Rokkishu". Unlike Sanchin, which is almost identical to its Chinese counterpart, Tensho is uniquely Okinawan. From his understanding of the Kata of Goju-Ryu and the "nature of man", Miyagi Sensei developed Tensho to further complete his Goju-Ryu system where Sanchin left off. Tensho has many of the same principles of Sanchin but goes further to include more intricate concepts of the techniques of Goju-Ryu.)
Rotate, Turn, Remove, Change, Roll Over, Shift, Transfer
Palm of the Hand, Hollow of the Hand, to Rule, to Administer, to Conduct
Miscellaneous Terms
Ji Y
Jee Yuu
Kumi
Koo Mee
Te
Teh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Freestyle Sparring Freestyle Fighting

Oneself; Itself Means; Way; Intent Freedom, Liberty
To Cross, Unite with, Grapple with, Braid Together Hand or Hands
Yakusoku
YahKoo SohKoo
Kumi
Koo Mee
Te
Teh

Promise; Agreement
To Cross, Unite with, Grapple with, Braid Together Hand or Hands
Pre-Arranged Sparring
(43)
Miscellaneous Terms ( Continued )

Taoshi
Tah Oh Shee
Waza
Wah Zah
Fall, Collapse, Drop, Succumb, Bring down, Throw down, Knock down, Trip up, Defeat, Overthrow
Technique, Craft, Ability, Feat, Skill, Performance
Take-Down Techniques
Nage
Nah Geh
Waza
Wah Zah
Throw, Pitch, Heave, Toss, Hurl, Throw Away,
Throwing Techniques
Ne
Neh
Waza
Wah Zah
Lying Down, Prostrated, Sprawl, Sleeping
Ground Techniques
Gyaku
GeeYahKoo
Waza
Wah Zah
Reverse, Inverse, Opposite, Traitorous, Act Contrary to Contrariwise, Visa-Versa
Reversal Techniques Reversing Techniques
(44)

Koky
Koh KeeYuu
H
Hoh
Breathe/Breathing, Respiration
Method, Law, Rule, Principle, Technique
Methods of Breathing
Heik
Hay Koh
(or)
Kink
Keen Koh
Level, Peaceful Scale, Measuring Rod
(or)
To Level, To Average Scale, Measuring Rod
Balance
Either Term Means: Balance or Equilibrium
Bu
Boo
Shi
Shee
D
Doh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) The Way of the Warrior The Warriors Way The Samurai Code of Chivalry
Military Arts, Chivalry, Military Power, Military Glory
Samurai, Man, Gentleman, Scholar
Way, Path, Road, Journey, Teachings, Course, Duty, Morality
Hissh
Hees Shoh
Certainly, Positively, Invariably Win, Victory Prevail, Surpass
Certain Victory Certain Success
(45)

Yoke
Yoh Keh
Avoid, Avert, Keep Aloof From, Stay Away From, Evade, Shirk, Shun
(a) Dodge Evade
Aite
Eye Teh
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Your) Opponent/Adversary The Other Party (Ones) Partner/Companion
Each Other, Fellow, Together Hand(s)
Shime
Shee Meh
Strangle, Constrict, Wring, Squeeze, Close Tight
(a) Choke (hold) Shimeru = (to) Choke (Someone)
Mamori
Mah Moh Ree
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (a) Defense (ones) Guard Mamoru = (to) Defend (Yourself)
Protect, Guard, Defense
(46)

Teki
Teh Kee
Enem,; Rival, Opponent
(ones) Enemy
Tatakai
Tah Tah Kah Ee
Battle, Struggle, Fight, Skirmish
(a) Fight
Kumiuchi
Koo Mee Uu Chee
Grapple or Struggle (with)
Grappling
Osaekomi
Oh Sah Eh Koh Mee
Press Down, Hold Down Suppress Into, Towards, Load
(a) Hold (as in wrestling, etc.) Osaekomu = (to) Hold
(47)

Makiwara
Mah Kee Wah Rah
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (a) Punching Board (Literally, a Bundle of Tightly Packed Straw used as a target for striking practice)
Roll up , Wind up, Bind Up, A Roll, A Bundle Straw
Mushin
Muu Sheen
None Absence (of) Heart, Mind
(having) No Thought (having) No Emotion
Kamiza
Kah Mee Zah
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) The Seat of Honor

The Kamiza is found at the head of the mat or workout area. The Kamiza can be as simple as a picture the founders (Such as Higaonna Sensei, Miyagi Sensei, Yamaguchi Sensei, etc.), or it can be an elaborate shrine. The Kamiza is not merely a decoration. It is a gentle reminder of the source of our art. When a Karateka is at the dojo there are several times when he or she will face the Kamiza and bow. The bow is a sign of respect to the Founders, and to thank them for what they have passed down to us. The Karateka will bow to the Kamiza when entering the dojo, when stepping onto the mat, at the beginning of class, at the end of class, when stepping off the mat, and when leaving the dojo.
Upper Superior Top Highest Seat
Shiai
Shee Eye
ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Sparring Match Sparring Tournament Contest Game
Testing, Trial, Ordeal Meet, Join Together, Match With, Mix, Combine
(48)
Primary Schools of Japanese Martial Arts

Jd Kdkan Jjutsu Ssuishitsu-ryu Hakk-ryu Kobujutsu Karated Gj-ryu Isshin-ryu Kyokushinkai Seidkai Shit-ryu Shreikan Shrinji-ryu Shotokan Uechi-ryu Wad-ryu Kend Shingend Kenp Shrinji Kyd Naginatad Ninjutsu, Ninp, Taijutsu Bujinkan Genbukan Jinenkan Ninjuukai Iga-ryu Yabusame Aikid Aikikai Shdkan Tomiki-ryu Yshinkan Aikijuujutsu, Aikibujutsu Dait-ryu Iaid
(49)

GoJuRyu Karate Terms and Kanji

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

GoJuRyu Karate Terms and Kanji

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

Researched & Compiled by Bruce A. Brunger

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

Japanese Pronunciation Guide

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

Basic Consonant Sounds

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

Consonant Pronunciation Guide ( Continued )

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

Consonant Pronunciation Guide ( Continued )

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

General Terms & Phrases

Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters

Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s)

Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters

Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s)

Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Practice) Hall Gymnasium Arena

Way, Path, Road, Journey, Teachings, Course, Duty, Morality

Place, Grounds, Ring, Site, Space, Scene

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

General Terms & Phrases (Continued)

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Instructor Teacher Schoolmaster Master Doctor

Birth, Live, Life, Existence, Cultivation, To Create, To Produce

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Pupil Student Disciple Follower Apprentice

Child, Offspring, The Young, A Youngster, Small

Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters

Fellow, Companion, Man

Rear, Back, Successor, Following

Fellow, Companion, Man

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Bowing) Ceremony (a) Rite

Salute, Bow, Show Courtesy, Appreciation, Propriety, Etiquette, Manners

Ceremony, Rite, Function

Original Meaning(s) of the Kanji Characters

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

General Terms & Phrases (Continued)

Straight, Right, Proper, Correct, Perfectly

Sit Down, Squat, Settle, Seat, Be Stable

Keeping Silence, Saying Nothing

Thought, Idea, Imagination, Consideration

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) Toward Each Other Mutually Together

Respectfully Toward Each Other, Mutually to Each Other, Reciprocally

(to) Respectfully Bow (towards)

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Please) Face (toward) the Front

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

General Terms & Phrases (Continued)

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Please) Face (toward) the Teacher

Toward (in the direction of) the Teacher or Instructor

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Used as a Command) Get Ready! (Be Prepared!)

Business, Work, Function, Errand, Use, Service

Will, Intention, Thought, Idea, Desire

Hajime (or Haijimeru)

Yame (or Yameru)

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Used as a Command) Stop! Cease!

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Used as a Command) Line up!

To line up, to form a line, to arrange side-by-side

Gjry Karate Terms & Translations

General Terms & Phrases (Continued)

(to) Line Up (by Rank)

ENGLISH TRANSLATION(S) (Used as a Command) Turn Around!

To Turn Around, Spin, Rotate, Go Around

Japanese Term Pronunciation Kanji Character(s)