1.
joint lock; joint-locking technique
A martial-arts technique that applies pressure to an opponent's joint (elbow, shoulder, knee, ankle, etc.) to force submission or incapacitate. A core category of techniques in judo, jujitsu, sambo, mixed martial arts, and professional wrestling.
関節技をかける。
To apply a joint lock.
その選手は関節技が得意だ。
That fighter is skilled at joint locks.
試合は関節技による一本で決着がついた。
The match was decided by an ippon from a joint lock.
Compound of 関節 ('joint') and 技 ('technique'). Refers to any submission technique that hyperextends or twists an opponent's joint. A standard category in grappling arts, usually paired with 絞め技 ('chokes') and 投げ技 ('throws') to describe the full technique repertoire.
USAGE:
- Used across martial arts commentary, instructional materials, and everyday talk about combat sports.
- In judo, 関節技 is traditionally limited to elbow locks in competition, while broader disciplines like jujitsu and MMA allow locks on many joints.
- Often contrasted with striking techniques (打撃技).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 関節技をかける: to apply a joint lock
- 関節技で一本を取る: to score an ippon with a joint lock
- 関節技を決める: to finish with a joint lock
- 関節技から逃れる: to escape a joint lock
RELATED TERMS:
- 絞め技: choke; strangulation technique — cuts off airway or blood flow.
- 投げ技: throwing technique — throws the opponent to the mat.
- 寝技: ground technique — any technique executed on the ground, including joint locks and chokes.
- 腕ひしぎ十字固め: armbar; cross armlock — a specific, iconic joint lock.