Ever wondered how to talk about the thrilling world of professional wrestling in Japanese? Whether you’re a seasoned fan, a language learner, or just curious, understanding the correct terminology is key. Japanese wrestling, known for its unique style and passionate fanbase, has its own specific vocabulary. Getting it right is important for connecting with other fans, following matches, or even just impressing your friends.
This guide will walk you through the essential words and phrases you’ll need. We’ll cover everything from the basic term for wrestling to more specific words used to describe different wrestling styles, moves, and even the wrestlers themselves. I’ll break down the nuances, offer helpful examples, and give you the confidence to talk about wrestling in Japanese like a pro. Get ready to learn and expand your vocabulary!
The Core Term: プロレス (puroresu)
The most fundamental word you need to know is プロレス (puroresu). This word, a shortened form of “professional wrestling,” is the go-to term for the sport in Japan. It encompasses all forms of professional wrestling, from the high-flying action of New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) to the more theatrical performances of other promotions. You’ll hear this word constantly if you’re watching or talking about wrestling in Japan.
Pronunciation is straightforward: “proh-reh-soo.” It’s a loanword, so it’s relatively easy to remember. When you’re talking about wrestling in general, “プロレス (puroresu)” is your starting point. For instance, you might say, “私はプロレスが好きです (Watashi wa puroresu ga suki desu),” which means “I like wrestling.”
Diving Deeper: Styles and Subgenres
While “プロレス (puroresu)” is the umbrella term, Japanese wrestling has various styles and subgenres. Knowing these can help you understand the specific type of wrestling being discussed. Let’s explore some of the more common styles.
Strong Style: ストロングスタイル (sutorongu Sutairu)
ストロングスタイル (sutorongu sutairu), meaning “strong style,” is a particularly important concept in Japanese wrestling. This style emphasizes realistic, hard-hitting moves and a focus on the athletic prowess of the wrestlers. It’s often associated with promotions like NJPW and the legendary Antonio Inoki. The emphasis is on the believable impact of each move. (See Also: How To Exercise For Arm Wrestling )
Key features of Strong Style include stiff strikes, realistic grappling, and a focus on selling the effects of the moves. The wrestlers often show visible fatigue, making the matches feel more authentic. If you are a fan of realistic action, you will enjoy this style.
Puroresu in Different Promotions
Different wrestling promotions have their own style, but the core term “プロレス (puroresu)” is always used. Let’s talk about some popular wrestling promotions in Japan:
- New Japan Pro-Wrestling (新日本プロレス): Often abbreviated as NJPW (新日). Known for its strong style, technical wrestling, and international appeal.
- All Japan Pro Wrestling (全日本プロレス): A historic promotion with a legacy of hard-hitting matches and legendary wrestlers.
- Pro Wrestling NOAH (プロレスリング・ノア): Another significant promotion with a focus on high-flying and fast-paced action.
Other Styles and Terms
Beyond Strong Style, other styles exist, although they often fall under the broader “プロレス (puroresu)” category:
- Lucha Libre (ルチャリブレ): While not exclusively Japanese, Lucha Libre, the Mexican style of wrestling, has a following in Japan. You can use the term “ルチャリブレ (ruchari bure)” to describe this style.
- Deathmatch (デスマッチ): A more extreme style of wrestling.
Key Wrestling Terms and Phrases
Now, let’s learn some essential words and phrases to help you describe wrestling matches and moves.
Basic Actions and Moves
- 試合 (shiai): Match. “今日の試合はすごかった (Kyou no shiai wa sugokatta)” – “Today’s match was amazing.”
- 技 (waza): Move or technique.
- 打撃 (daki): Striking.
- 投げ技 (nage waza): Throwing techniques.
- 関節技 (kansetsu waza): Submission holds/Joint locks.
- ピン (pin): Pinfall.
- フォール (fooru): Fall (pinfall).
- ロープ (roopu): Rope.
- リング (ringu): Ring.
- コーナー (koonaa): Corner.
Specific Moves
Here are some common wrestling moves and their Japanese translations: (See Also: How To Be More Explosive In Wrestling )
- ドロップキック (Doroppu Kikku): Dropkick.
- スープレックス (Suupurekkusu): Suplex.
- ジャーマン・スープレックス (Jaaman Suupurekkusu): German Suplex.
- ブレーンバスター (Bureen Basutaa): Brainbuster.
- パイルドライバー (Pairu Doraibaa): Piledriver. (Note: This is a controversial move and not always used.)
- フィニッシュムーブ (Finisshu Muubu): Finishing move.
- 必殺技 (Hissatsu-waza): Signature move.
Describing the Match
- 興奮した (koufun shita): Excited.
- すごい (sugoi): Amazing, great.
- 激しい (hageshii): Fierce, intense.
- 痛い (itai): Painful.
- 反則 (hansoku): Foul/Disqualification.
- レフェリー (referee): Referee.
- 勝利 (shouri): Victory.
- 敗北 (haiboku): Defeat.
- チャンピオン (chanpion): Champion.
Talking About Wrestlers
Knowing how to refer to wrestlers is just as important as knowing the moves. Here’s some vocabulary for that.
General Terms
- レスラー (resuraa): Wrestler.
- 選手 (senshu): Athlete/Wrestler (more formal).
- ベビーフェイス (bebi feisu): Babyface (good guy).
- ヒール (hiiru): Heel (bad guy).
- タッグチーム (taggu chiimu): Tag team.
- マネージャー (maneejaa): Manager.
Referencing Wrestlers
When you’re referring to a specific wrestler, you’ll typically use their name. If you want to be formal, you can add “選手 (senshu)” after their name. For example, “オカダ・カズチカ選手 (Okada Kazuchika senshu)” means “Wrestler Kazuchika Okada.”
If you are talking about a wrestler’s popularity, you can use the word “人気 (ninki),” which means popular. For instance, “彼は人気レスラーです (Kare wa ninki resuraa desu)” – “He is a popular wrestler.”
Common Phrases for Watching and Discussing Wrestling
Here are some useful phrases to use when watching or talking about wrestling:
- プロレスを見るのが好きです (Puroresu o miru no ga suki desu): I like watching wrestling.
- この試合は面白いですね (Kono shiai wa omoshiroi desu ne): This match is interesting, isn’t it?
- あの技はすごかった！(Ano waza wa sugokatta!): That move was amazing!
- 誰が勝ちましたか？(Dare ga kachimashita ka?): Who won?
- 応援しています！(Ouen shiteimasu!): I’m cheering for you! (Can be used to support a wrestler).
- 次の試合が楽しみです (Tsugi no shiai ga tanoshimi desu): I’m looking forward to the next match.
- あのレスラーは強い (Ano resuraa wa tsuyoi): That wrestler is strong.
Pronunciation Tips
Japanese pronunciation can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you: (See Also: How To Make Someone Tap Out In Wrestling Revolution )
- Vowel Sounds: Japanese has five vowel sounds (a, i, u, e, o), and they’re always pronounced the same way.
- Loanwords: Loanwords from English (like “puroresu”) are adapted to Japanese pronunciation.
- Practice: The best way to improve is to practice speaking. Listen to Japanese commentators and try to mimic their pronunciation.
- Online Resources: Use online resources like YouTube videos or language learning apps to hear the correct pronunciation.
Where to Learn More
There are many resources available to help you further your Japanese language skills and your wrestling knowledge:
- Language Learning Apps: Apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and Anki can help you learn basic Japanese vocabulary and grammar.
- Japanese Language Courses: Consider taking a Japanese language course at a local community college or online.
- Wrestling Websites and Forums: Check out Japanese wrestling websites and forums to learn more about the sport and see the vocabulary in context.
- Watch Japanese Wrestling with Commentary: Watching wrestling matches with Japanese commentary is a great way to learn new words and phrases.
- Japanese-English Dictionaries: Utilize online or physical Japanese-English dictionaries to look up words and their meanings.
Cultural Context
Understanding the cultural context of Japanese wrestling will also enrich your experience. Japanese wrestling is known for its respect, tradition, and dramatic storytelling. It’s not just about the athletic performance; it’s about the characters, the rivalries, and the emotional connection with the audience.
The role of the fans is also important. Japanese wrestling fans are known for their passion and respect for the wrestlers. They often participate in chants and show their support in various ways. The atmosphere at a live event is electrifying.
Understanding these cultural aspects will give you a deeper appreciation for the sport and enhance your ability to discuss it with others.
Conclusion
Learning how to talk about wrestling in Japanese opens up a whole new world of entertainment and cultural understanding. With the vocabulary and phrases provided in this guide, you’re well on your way to discussing the sport with confidence. Remember to practice, listen, and immerse yourself in the world of Japanese wrestling. Enjoy the matches and the journey of learning!
