What does "oss" mean in jiu-jitsu and where does the word come from
The expression is used to greet, thank and say "understood". Its origin has several versions, and none is proven.
Anyone who walks into a jiu-jitsu academy hears "oss" all the time: at the start of class, after the instructor's explanation, in the greeting before training. The word has become a hallmark of mat culture, but few people know where it comes from.
What "oss" means
In jiu-jitsu, "oss" is used in several ways, depending on the moment:
- Greeting: to salute the instructor and teammates.
- Confirmation: to say "understood" or "agreed" after an instruction.
- Respect and thanks: to acknowledge a partner's effort after training.
Where the word comes from
Its origin is not proven, and there are several versions. The most cited are:
- A contraction of Japanese expressions: "oss" would be a short form of "onegai shimasu", something like "please" or "I'm counting on you", or of "ohayo gozaimasu", which means "good morning".
- Japanese naval school: the word would have emerged among Japanese Navy cadets, who needed short replies to orders.
- Kyokushin karate: the term is widely used in that style of karate, linked to the idea of perseverance and fighting spirit.
The Japanese form "osu" is usually written with the characters for "push" and "endure", which reinforces the idea of pressing on in the face of difficulty.
How the word reached jiu-jitsu
"Oss" passed from Japanese martial arts into Brazilian jiu-jitsu and spread to academies around the world. Sources disagree about who first used the word in jiu-jitsu, so this guide does not name anyone.
Frequently asked questions
What does "oss" mean in jiu-jitsu?
It is an expression of respect used to greet, thank and confirm that you understood an instruction. The meaning changes depending on the moment in class.
Is "oss" a Japanese word?
The Japanese form is "osu". Its exact origin is not proven; the most cited versions point to a contraction of expressions such as "onegai shimasu", to the Japanese Navy and to Kyokushin karate.
Do I have to say "oss" at the academy?
No. It is a custom, not a rule. Each academy has its own culture, and the instructor usually makes clear what is expected.
