Archives: Glossary Terms

Han-tenkan 半転換 — Partial turn, often approximately 90 degrees in systems that distinguish the two.

Hasuji 刃筋 | Cutting-edge alignment — The alignment and orientation of a sword’s cutting edge in relation to the direction of a cut. In Japanese kenjutsu and iaidō, correct hasuji ensures that the blade travels along its intended cutting plane,…

Hiki-giri 引き斬り is a pulling cut in which the blade is drawn through the target.

Hiza-giri 膝斬り | Knee cut — A sword cut directed at an opponent’s knee or knee-level target. Hiza (膝) means “knee,” and giri (斬り) means “cutting.”

Hyōshi 拍子 — Rhythm, beat, or timing. Especially important in classical swordsmanship.