judo
/ˈxudo/masculine
The English term judo is translated into Spanish as judo or yudo.
Meaning: Japanese martial art (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| judo | /ˈxudo/ /ˈʝudo/ |
masculine |
| yudo | /ˈʝudo/ | masculine |
Both terms refer to the Japanese martial art.
Is it said differently in some regions?
While both forms are correct, judo is more common in Spain, whereas yudo is frequently used in parts of Latin America.
How does it change in a sentence?
As a masculine noun, it is preceded by the masculine article el when referring to the sport in a general sense.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈxudo/
Did you know?
- Even though the English word 'judo' starts with a 'j', a Spanish speaker reading 'judo' will pronounce it with a strong, breathy 'h' sound, much like the word 'jamón'.
- The term yudo is borrowed from the Japanese 柔道, which literally translates to 'gentle way'.
- The spelling difference between judo and yudo is not just a matter of regional preference, but a reflection of how the letter 'j' is pronounced in Spanish. In many Spanish-speaking regions, the 'j' sounds like a raspy 'h', so 'yudo' was popularized to ensure the Japanese 'j' sound was better represented.
Examples in context
- Practico judo.I'm practicing judo.This sentence is useful for describing your own practice of judo.Tatoeba #5566216 by swyter, translation #3872641 by CK
- Tom está aprendiendo judo.Tom is learning judo.This sentence is useful for stating that Tom is learning judo.Tatoeba #11313212 by shekitten, translation #11312950 by shekitten
- Mi hermano mayor practica judo. Es muy bueno.My older brother is practicing judo. He is very good.This sentence is useful for describing an older brother who is good at practicing judo.Tatoeba #456460 by lukaszpp, translation #456459 by lukaszpp
- 4 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sofía and Javier are talking about their hobbies at a park.
- Sofía¿Qué deporte practicas, Javier?What sport do you practice, Javier?
- JavierHago judo tres veces por semana.I do judo three times a week.
- Sofía¡Qué bien! El judo parece muy difícil.That's great! Judo looks very difficult.
- JavierEs duro, pero es muy divertido.It is tough, but it is very fun.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “judo” translations and entries judo, yudo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries judo, yudo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
