Translation guide
A strike delivered using the elbow, common in martial arts and self-defense. Japanese has specific terms depending on the direction and style.
A strike with the elbow in combat sports or self-defense
General term for an elbow strike, used in karate, kickboxing, and other martial arts.
He threw a powerful elbow strike.
Literally 'elbow hit', also used for elbow strikes, sometimes in a more traditional context.
In karate, the elbow strike is an effective technique.
Named elbow strikes based on the direction of the strike
Horizontal elbow strike, common in Muay Thai and kickboxing.
The horizontal elbow strike targets the opponent's temple.
Upward elbow strike, often used to attack the chin or face.
Downward elbow strike, typically aimed at the top of the head or collarbone.
Backward elbow strike, used when the opponent is behind.
The elbow strike as a technique in Muay Thai, often called 'sok' in Thai
Loanword from French 'savate', but sometimes used in Japanese martial arts to refer to certain elbow strikes. Not standard; use with caution.
This term is not a direct translation and may cause confusion. Prefer 肘打ち.
Savate is originally a kicking technique from French martial arts, but it can sometimes refer to an elbow strike.
In Japanese martial arts like karate or aikido, 肘打ち (hijiuchi) is standard. In Muay Thai contexts, you may hear エルボー (erubō) from English, but 肘打ち is still understood.
He landed an upward elbow strike on the opponent's chin.
The downward elbow strike is dropped onto the top of the head.
He dealt with the attack from behind with a backward elbow strike.