1.
aikido
A modern Japanese martial art that emphasizes redirecting an attacker's energy through throws and joint locks rather than striking. Founded by Ueshiba Morihei in the early 20th century.
合気道を習っている。
I'm learning aikido.
合気道は相手の力を利用する武道だ。
Aikido is a martial art that uses the opponent's force.
合気道には試合がないので、稽古で技を磨く。
Since aikido has no competitive matches, practitioners refine their techniques through training.
WORD FORMATION:
合 (harmony) + 気 (spirit/energy) + 道 (way/path)
CULTURAL CONTEXT:
Founded by 植芝盛平 (1883-1969). Aikido is distinctive among martial arts for its philosophy of nonviolence — the goal is to neutralize an attack without harming the attacker. Unlike 柔道 or 空手道, aikido does not have formal competitions. Practice (稽古) is done with a partner, taking turns as attacker (受け) and defender (取り). Aikido has a strong international following.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 合気道を習う: to learn aikido
- 合気道の稽古: aikido practice
- 合気道の道場: aikido dojo
- 合気道の段: aikido rank