strike to a vital point; atemi (martial arts)
In martial arts such as judo, aikido, and karate, 当て身 refers to a strike aimed at a vulnerable area of the body. The term is often used in technical discussions of striking techniques.
In judo, atemi (strikes to vital points) are prohibited in competition.
合気道の当て身は相手のバランスを崩すために使われる。
In aikido, atemi are used to break the opponent's balance.
Standard spelling with okurigana て, widely used in martial arts contexts.
Irregular okurigana usage; seen in some martial arts texts but less common than 当て身.
Ateji spelling; rarely used and may be confused with 中身 (なかみ, 'contents').
Compound of 当て (ate, 'striking' or 'hitting') and 身 (mi, 'body'). The term is native to Japanese martial arts vocabulary.