武道
budō
The English phrase "martial arts" is translated into Japanese as 武道 (budō).
武道 is used to describe martial arts as a disciplined way of life or a path of self-improvement. To refer to a person who practices these arts, you can add the suffix 家 to the word to form 武道家, meaning "martial artist".
What does it mean word for word?
The word consists of 武 (bu) meaning martial or military and 道 (dō) meaning way or path.
Which one should you use?
While 武道 refers to martial arts as a disciplined path or way of life, the term 格闘技 is more commonly used to refer to combat sports or fighting techniques used in competition.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Okinawa, the term te may be used instead of karate in some contexts.
How do you pronounce it?
budō
Did you know?
- The kanji for 'martial' 武 is composed of two parts: 'stop' and 'dance'. Some philosophers interpret this as the idea that the goal of martial arts is to stop the dance of war.
- The term 道 (dō) in 武道 is shared with 茶道 (sadō) for tea ceremony and 華道 (kadō) for flower arranging. This categorizes martial arts not as sports, but as meditative spiritual paths.
- In Japan, 武道 is an official part of the compulsory school curriculum for many students. It is taught as a means of character development and national identity rather than just physical exercise.
Examples in context
- トムは武道家です。Tom practices martial arts.This sentence is useful for saying someone practices martial arts using the word 武道.Tatoeba #5032935 by 999yudai, translation #5057785 by mactrey
- 武道が大好き！I love martial arts!This sentence is useful for expressing a love for martial arts using the word 武道.Tatoeba #11357789 by MrJuice, translation #1295005 by marcelostockle
- 薙刀は日本の伝統的な武道の一つだ。Naginata is one of Japan's traditional martial arts.This sentence is useful for describing a specific practice as a traditional martial art using the word 武道.Tatoeba #1018204 by yurusu, translation #1018206 by yurusu
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their hobbies at school.
- 陽葵 Himari大翔くんは何かスポーツをしていますか？Daishō-kun wa nanika supōtsu o shite imasu ka?Daisho, do you play any sports?
- 大翔 Hirotoはい、今は武道を習っています。Hai, ima wa budō o naratte imasu.Yes, I'm learning martial arts now.
- 陽葵 Himariすごい！どの武道をやっているの？Sugoi! Dono budō o yatte iru no?That's cool! Which martial art are you doing?
- 大翔 Hiroto合気道を習っています。Aikidō o naratte imasu.I am practicing Aikido.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
