Judo term

De-ashi-barai: Judo Meaning

Pronunciation
deh-ah-shee bah-rye
Meaning
Advancing foot sweep

In Judo

De-ashi-barai sweeps the foot as it advances or becomes light. Timing and upper-body control matter more than force.

How to recognize it

Recognize de-ashi-barai by its timing: the foot is swept low during movement, not kicked after it has become heavy and planted.

Quick check

When is the foot easiest to sweep in De-ashi-barai?

Reveal answer

When it is advancing or has become light.

Keep it distinct

Sweep versus kick

De-ashi-barai uses timing, a low sole-of-the-foot sweep, and upper-body guidance. It is not a kick at uke's ankle or a heavy planted foot.

Illustration of De-ashi-barai, an advancing foot sweep
Technique image: In De-ashi-barai, tori sweeps uke's advancing foot as it becomes light, while the grips guide the body in the same direction.

Lessons that teach this