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Jiujitsu vs. Jujitsu — What's the Difference?

By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 20, 2024
Jiujitsu and Jujitsu refer to the same Japanese martial art emphasizing grappling and submissions. "Jiujitsu" is an alternate spelling commonly used in modern contexts, while "Jujitsu" is the traditional romanization.
Jiujitsu vs. Jujitsu — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Jiujitsu and Jujitsu

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Key Differences

Jiujitsu, a martial art focusing on grappling, throws, and submissions, is commonly used in modern contexts, particularly in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Jujitsu, the traditional romanization of the Japanese martial art, emphasizes the same techniques but retains closer ties to its historical roots in Japan. This spelling is often used in historical and traditional contexts, preserving the original cultural significance and authenticity.
iujitsu is frequently associated with the sport and competitive aspect, particularly BJJ, which has gained global popularity and prominence in mixed martial arts (MMA). The focus here is on practical application and effectiveness in a sporting context. Jujitsu, on the other hand, often retains a broader scope, including self-defense techniques, philosophy, and traditional forms practiced in classical Japanese martial arts schools. This encompasses a more holistic approach to martial training.
Jiujitsu's modern iteration often involves a more dynamic, sport-oriented practice with an emphasis on groundwork and submissions. This makes it a popular choice for those looking to compete in combat sports. Jujitsu tends to emphasize a comprehensive approach to combat, incorporating strikes, joint locks, and various self-defense techniques, which are integral to traditional martial arts training and preservation.

Comparison Chart

Spelling

Modern variation
Traditional romanization

Common Context

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
Traditional Japanese martial arts
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Focus

Sport, competition, groundwork
Self-defense, holistic training

Popularity

Global, especially in MMA
Traditional dojos, historical

Techniques

Emphasis on submissions
Includes strikes, joint locks

Compare with Definitions

Jiujitsu

A modern martial art focusing on ground fighting.
He trained in jiujitsu to improve his grappling skills.

Jujitsu

A traditional Japanese martial art.
He studied jujitsu to connect with his cultural heritage.

Jiujitsu

Often associated with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
She competes in jiujitsu tournaments regularly.

Jujitsu

Practiced in traditional dojos.
She enrolled in a jujitsu dojo to learn ancient self-defense methods.

Jiujitsu

A global martial art with a modern approach.
Jiujitsu has become popular worldwide for its practical self-defense applications.

Jujitsu

Emphasizes self-defense and personal development.
Jujitsu taught him discipline and respect through martial arts.

Jiujitsu

Adapted for sport and competition.
Jiujitsu practitioners excel in mixed martial arts.

Jujitsu

Focuses on a comprehensive set of techniques.
Jujitsu training includes strikes and joint locks.

Jiujitsu

Emphasizes submission holds and escapes.
Jiujitsu classes taught her effective submission techniques.

Jujitsu

Retains historical and philosophical elements.
Jujitsu classes often incorporate lessons in Japanese philosophy.

Jiujitsu

Variant of jujitsu.

Jujitsu

An art of weaponless self-defense developed in Japan that uses throws, holds, and blows and derives added power from the attacker's own weight and strength.

Jiujitsu

Alternative spelling of jujitsu

Jujitsu

A method of self-defence established in Japan emphasizing “jū” (soft or gentle) “jutsu” (art or technique). Japanese martial art that utilizes a large variety of techniques in defense against an opponent.

Jiujitsu

A method of self-defense without weapons that was developed in China and Japan; holds and blows are supplemented by clever use of the attacker's own weight and strength.

Jujitsu

Brazilian jiu-jitsu, a related art, derived from judo.

Jiujitsu

A method of self-defense without weapons that was developed in China and Japan; holds and blows are supplemented by clever use of the attacker's own weight and strength

Jujitsu

(figuratively) Strategic maneuvering, especially with the aim of using the strength of one's opponent against them in an unexpected or counterintuitive way.

Jujitsu

Same as jujutsu.

Jujitsu

A method of self-defense without weapons that was developed in China and Japan; holds and blows are supplemented by clever use of the attacker's own weight and strength

Common Curiosities

Are the techniques in Jiujitsu and Jujitsu the same?

Both focus on grappling and submissions, but Jujitsu often includes strikes and joint locks, reflecting a more traditional approach.

Why is Jiujitsu popular in MMA?

Jiujitsu, particularly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, is effective in ground fighting, making it essential in mixed martial arts.

Does Jiujitsu include striking techniques?

Typically, Jiujitsu focuses on grappling and submissions rather than striking.

What is the main difference between Jiujitsu and Jujitsu?

Jiujitsu is a modern spelling often associated with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, while Jujitsu is the traditional romanization of the Japanese martial art.

Can Jiujitsu be practiced without a gi?

Yes, no-gi Jiujitsu is a popular variant, especially in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Can Jujitsu be practiced for self-defense?

Yes, Jujitsu includes a broad range of self-defense techniques, making it suitable for practical defense training.

Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu considered Jiujitsu or Jujitsu?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is commonly referred to as Jiujitsu in modern contexts.

Do both Jiujitsu and Jujitsu require a gi (uniform)?

Yes, traditional practice in both arts typically involves wearing a gi.

Is the philosophy different in Jiujitsu and Jujitsu?

Jujitsu often incorporates traditional Japanese philosophy, while Jiujitsu is more sport-focused.

Which is more practical for modern self-defense, Jiujitsu or Jujitsu?

Both can be practical, but Jiujitsu is often seen as more accessible due to its modern adaptations.

Is Jujitsu more traditional than Jiujitsu?

Yes, Jujitsu retains more traditional elements and historical practices.

Which is better for sport competition, Jiujitsu or Jujitsu?

Jiujitsu, especially Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, is more sport-oriented and suited for competition.

Is it common to see Jujitsu schools outside Japan?

While less common than Jiujitsu schools, traditional Jujitsu dojos can still be found globally.

Are there ranking belts in both Jiujitsu and Jujitsu?

Yes, both arts use a belt ranking system to signify levels of proficiency.

Do Jiujitsu and Jujitsu have different origins?

Both originate from Japan, but Jiujitsu has evolved more in the context of Brazilian adaptations.

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Author Spotlight

Written by
Tayyaba Rehman
Tayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj Arif
Urooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.

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