karate

Karate is a form of self-defense, but it can also be used when attacking an opponent in a fight. It originates in Japan and is among one of several different forms of martial arts.

This is a good word to know because many people in the United States take karate lessons or know how to do karate. Nowadays, karate is also popular among children.

Most Americans pronounce the word "karate" with the accent falling on the second syllable: ka-ra-te. Another, less popular (but probably more accurate because this is a Japanese word) pronunciation of this word is ka-ra-te with the accent falling on the third syllable.

• Bill knows karate.
• He’s been taking karate lessons for the last ten years.
• Karate is good to know for self defense.

• Jeremiah has just started to learn karate.
• He goes to a karate studio and practices with other children.
• He refers to his karate instructor as sensei. (The word "sensei" is used for karate teachers.)

• Kara has earned a green belt in karate.
• She believes that knowing karate gives her more self-confidence.

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July 12, 2015