Marital Arts Terms
The Problem
Martial Arts are littered with terms describing techniques, principals and concepts. Often the terms come from different languages and have cultural and contextual implications. This poses a great problem when discussing things critically because everyone involved in a conversation may or may not interpret these terms the same way. So how can we communicate effectively if we are not speaking the same language?
The Dilemma
It would seem like the solution would be to get everyon to speak the same language! But what language do we use? Do we use Japanese, Chinese, English, the language of Aikido, Arnis or any other martial art style? Do we simply start defining our own language borrowing terms from the various popular martail arts styles? Or do we start from scratch?
Building a Better Linguo
Since the goal of this site is to be scientific in nature the proper thing to do would be to use common well defined terms for our discussion. By common, I mean common as in "you would find it in a dictionary or a scientific publication", not common as in "you would hear it spoken in a dojo, uh, I mean martial arts school. :)" To test the appropriateness of a word, ask yourself whether a non martial artist would understand or agree with the definition of your term.
This is nothing below this of much values yet
Focus areas:
The following is an attempt to define some terminology that may help clarify the level of research being discussed at a particular time.
Methods
Used to describe a way of moving. This is broader than a technique which is a specific application of a method. (def. not good for our purposes)
1 : a procedure or process for attaining an object: as a
(1) : a systematic procedure, technique, or mode of inquiry
employed by or proper to a particular discipline or art
(2) : a systematic plan followed in presenting material for
instruction b (1) : a way, technique, or process of or
for doing something (2) : a body of skills or techniques
2 : a discipline that deals with the principles and
techniques of scientific inquiry
3 a : orderly arrangement, development, or classification :
PLAN b : the habitual practice of orderliness and regularity
4 capitalized : a dramatic technique by which an actor seeks
to gain complete identification with the inner personality
of the character being portrayed synonyms METHOD, MODE,
MANNER, WAY, FASHION, SYSTEM mean the means taken or
procedure followed in achieving an end. METHOD implies an
orderly logical effective arrangement usually in steps
<effective teaching methods>. MODE implies an order or
course followed by custom, tradition, or personal preference
<the preferred mode of transportation>. MANNER is close to
MODE but may imply a procedure or method that is individual
or distinctive <an odd manner of conducting>. WAY is very
general and may be used for any of the preceding words <has
her own way of doing things>. FASHION may suggest a peculiar
or characteristic way of doing something <rushing about in
his typical fashion>. SYSTEM suggests a fully developed or
carefully formulated method often emphasizing the idea of
rational orderliness <a filing system>.
Techniques
A specific application such as a punch, throw or a wrist lock. (def. not good for our purposes).
1 : the manner in which technical details are treated (as by a
writer) or basic physical movements are used (as by a
dancer); also : ability to treat such details or use such
movements <good piano technique>
2 a : a body of technical methods (as in a craft or in
scientific research) b : a method of accomplishing a
desired aim
Analogies
(Look for a better word, cross-example...)
A comparison of a method or technique to another non-martial activity such as walking or another sport.
Stepping
Terms to be avoided
Discuss why?
When are martial arts terms appropriate?
Should we cross index martial arts terms with our "better" terms?