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Training with 稽古

Kendo club students training with bamboo swords.
BAMBOO BLADE » Volume 4 » Page 171

The term 稽古(けいこ) is widely used to refer to practicing various arts.

It contains the kanji 稽, meaning to train, and 古, which refers to the past, to ancient times. This gives the sense of “learning from the past”, of learning from one’s predecessors.

Compared with 練習(れんしゅう), a more generic term for practice or training, 稽古(けいこ) has the nuance of improving oneself as well as acquiring skills.

It is often associated with traditional arts such as:

  • Martial Arts: Practicing kendo, judo, or karate.
  • Performing Arts: Rehearsing for kabuki or noh theater.
  • Tea Ceremony: Learning the intricate steps of preparing and serving tea.

Dictionary Definition

1. 芸能(げいのう)武術(ぶじゅつ)技術(ぎじゅつ)などを(なら)うこと。また、練習(れんしゅう)

2. 芝居(しばい)などで、本番(ほんばん)(まえ)練習(れんしゅう)(した)げいこ。リハーサル。

3. (むかし)(しょ)()んで(もの)道理(どうり)故実(こじつ)(まな)ぶこと。学問(がくもん)

1. To take lessons in public entertainment, martial arts, engineering etc. Also, training.

2. Reherse before a performance of a play, etc. Rehersal.

3. Reading old books to learn about the principles of things and historical facts. Study.

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