ippon

Ippon is a term used in several Japanese martial arts to denote a decisive, full point. In the context of judo, where the term is most central, ippon represents the highest score and typically ends the match. The word literally means “one full point” or “one strike.”

In judo competition, ippon can be awarded in several ways. The most common is a throw that is executed with apparent force, speed, and control, and which places the opponent largely on the back upon landing. The throw must demonstrate clean technique and result in a decisive display of balance and control. Ippon can also be awarded for a pin (osaekomi-waza) held for a prescribed duration, currently 20 seconds in modern rules, with the opponent unable to escape. A submission by joint lock or choke that causes the opponent to submit also yields an ippon. If an opponent is unable to continue due to injury or submission, the referee may stop the match and award ippon.

Two waza-ari scores can also combine to ippon (waza-ari awasete ippon). Waza-ari are lower scores given for substantial throws or partial control, but not enough to end the match by themselves.

The term ippon is used beyond judo as well, reflecting its meaning of a decisive point or victory. In other martial arts, such as kendo, ippon is used to denote a clean, decisive hit that earns a full point. Overall, ippon signifies a clear, conclusive win condition in competition.