Terminology

As with any mature discipline, karate has a rich set of terms and concepts. The terminology of Shotokan karate is consistently used in all instruction. A karateka who has learned the Japanese karate terminology is able to enter any karate dojo in the world and participate.

Beginners to karate should reference the basic terminology section to see the terms most often used in the practice of karate.

Advanced karateka should refer to the full terminology listing.