004 — Karate: What’s in a Name?

Photograph of Okinawan karate masters at the 1936 meeting where the name “Karate” was adopted.

Few names are as widely recognized, and often mispronounced, within the martial arts as "Karate." To many in the West, this fighting art, characterized by powerful strikes and grappling techniques, symbolizes discipline and physical prowess. However, the Western practitioner's frequent mispronunciation of the term "Karate" serves as a telling indicator of a deeper issue: a superficial understanding of the art they claim to practice—and, worse, to teach.

The correct pronunciation of "Karate" is kah-rah-teh (空手), not kuh-RAH-tee. This subtle but significant distinction underscores the importance of cultural and linguistic awareness in one's training. The term is composed of two characters: kara (空), meaning "empty," and te (手), meaning "hand." Thus, Karate is often translated as "empty hand," reflecting the art’s emphasis on unarmed combat—a deeper exploration of which I’ll reserve for another article.

Mispronouncing "Karate" is not just a phonetic slip; it’s a cultural and philosophical misstep. It's a sign that the practitioner may not fully grasp the depth and richness of this folk art, which is deeply intertwined with the cultural history, traditions, and philosophy of Okinawa and the Ryukyu Kingdom. Understanding these foundations is vital to unraveling Karate’s mysteries and plumbing its depths. Correct pronunciation is a basic, yet essential, first step in demonstrating one’s sincerity and comprehension.

The photo above captured a pivotal moment in Karate history: the 1936 meeting of Okinawan masters in Naha, where they collectively agreed to adopt the name "Karate" in its modern form, meaning “empty hand.” This historic gathering of some of the most respected senior Karate sensei, captured in a black-and-white photograph, reflects a moment of cultural clarity and philosophical unity.

Among those in attendance were some of the most influential names in Karate history: Chōjun Miyagi, founder of Gōjū-Ryū; Chōki Motobu, known for his fierce practicality and live-fighting experience; Chōshin Chibana, founder of Shōrin-Ryū; Kanken Tōyama, who later established the Shūdōkan; Shinpan Gusukuma (also known as Shinpan Shiroma), a revered Shuri-te practitioner and educator; and Juhatsu Kyoda, founder of Tōon-Ryū and senior student of Higaonna Kanryō. Prior to this, the art had been referred to by various names, including 唐手 (Tōdi - “China hand”), reflecting its ties to Chinese martial traditions. The choice to redefine the art as “empty hand” marked a significant step toward establishing a uniquely Okinawan identity, rooted in indigenous values and philosophies.

This meeting was more than a naming convention—it was a declaration of cultural independence and a conscious assertion of Karate’s role as an Okinawan-born discipline. To misunderstand or misrepresent the name today is to overlook the thoughtfulness and cultural pride behind that decision.

Practitioners who mispronounce "Karate" may inadvertently reveal their lack of understanding of not only its physical practice—as is often the case—but also its cultural and societal values. This lack of knowledge leads to a lesser version of Karate, one that lacks the depth and authenticity of its original practice. Genuine Karate encompasses not only physical technique but also mental discipline, ethical conduct, and respect for its cultural origins.

To truly understand and teach Karate, practitioners must not only strive to fully understand the physical practices—most do not—but also go beyond the physical techniques and delve into the cultural and philosophical dimensions of the art. This means studying the history of Karate, learning about the lives and teachings of its historical figures, and embracing the values of respect, humility, and continuous self-improvement that are central it.

Moreover, Karate instructors have a responsibility to ensure this knowledge is passed on to their students. Proper pronunciation is a simple yet powerful way to show respect for Karate's cultural roots, set a tone of seriousness and authenticity in the dōjō, and demonstrate a deeper understanding of what is being taught and practiced. It reminds students that Karate is not merely a sport or a method of self-preservation but a comprehensive discipline that cultivates the mind, body, and spirit. Failure to do so often signifies their understanding is shallow at best and, more often than not, just plain wrong.

In conclusion, the frequent mispronunciation of "Karate" by practitioners highlights a broader issue of superficial engagement with this profound art. By striving for a deeper understanding of Karate's cultural and philosophical foundations, practitioners can honor the true spirit of Karate and ensure that it is passed down with integrity and respect. In Karate, as in life, attention to detail and respect for tradition make all the difference.

So—what’s in a name?
Apparently, a lot!