礼
reikarate, command
In Japanese karate the word for "bow" is 礼 (rei). The instructor calls it out, and students bow together. It is also called お辞儀 (ojigi).
Meaning: bow in the dojo (noun)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 礼 | rei | karate, command |
| お辞儀 | ojigi | general, a bow |
Karate classes start and end with a bow. The call 礼 (rei) is said while everyone bows. In general speech, a bow is お辞儀 (ojigi).
How does it change in a sentence?
Before the bow, the class usually hears a longer call such as 正面に礼 (shoumen ni rei), "bow to the front".
When do people say it?
A bow in the dojo shows respect for the teacher, the other students and the training space. Students also bow when stepping onto the floor or when starting a drill with a partner.
Did you know?
- The word 空手 (karate) is written with kanji meaning "empty hand", because the art is practiced without weapons.
Examples in context
- 先生に礼をする。Sensei ni rei o suru.To bow to the teacher.
- 深くお辞儀をした。Fukaku ojigi o shita.I bowed deeply.
Example conversation
Sensei Mori starts a karate class with the student Kaito.
- Mori整列。Seiretsu.Line up.
- Mori正面に礼。Shoumen ni rei.Bow to the front.
- Kaitoお願いします。Onegaishimasu.Please teach me.
