Archives: Glossary Terms

Keiko 稽古 means practice or training through the study and transmission of classical tradition; literally “to reflect on the past.”

Kirioroshi (切り下ろし) — Downward cut. A descending sword cut delivered from above, usually along the centerline.

Kiriotoshi (切り落とし) — Cutting down/off. A descending cut that cuts through, suppresses, or defeats the opponent’s attack; in several classical schools it is also the name of a fundamental tactical principle or technique.

Kufū 工夫 is creative ingenuity in training; the application of personal insight and intelligent effort to refine technique.