# judo

/ˈdʒuˌdoʊ/ (US) · /dʒˈuːdəʊ/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/judo
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a sport from Japan where you use your hands and body to throw your opponent to the ground. It focuses on using the other person's weight and strength against them.

For teachers: a modern Japanese martial art and combat sport characterized by the use of grappling, throws, and joint locks to subdue an opponent. Developed in the late 19th century, it emphasizes maximum efficiency with minimum effort.

## Examples

- She practices judo at the local gym twice a week.
- The instructor taught the beginners how to fall safely before they practiced their first judo throws.
- While many martial arts rely on striking, judo focuses on leverage and balance, allowing a smaller practitioner to overcome a much larger opponent through superior technique.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I play judo every Tuesday" but "I do judo every Tuesday" — English speakers use 'do' for martial arts and individual sports that do not involve a ball.

## Usage notes

- Typically used with the verb 'do' (e.g., 'to do judo') rather than 'play'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.