If you’re a veteran practitioner of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or simply a newcomer, the chances are you’ve heard ‘Oss’ at some point. However, what does this word mean exactly? In short, there is some history behind one of the most commonly used phrases in BJJ. As it happens, this word isn’t Portuguese either. Read on for more information.
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What is the meaning of Oss?
Oss is basically a noun that can be used in various scenarios. Typically, you’re more likely to hear this from Brazilians, so if you train at a gym without them then there’s a chance you won’t be aware of it. Also, sometimes the term Osu is used instead, which means the same thing.
Examples of Oss
If you walk into the gym and greet someone, you could shake their hand and say Oss. In this context, it means hello and is used as a greating. Sometimes, your teacher may also shout Oss after showing a move, which works as a kind of full stop. Lastly, it can be also used as an expression term to describe excitement or something positive.
For example, if a coach says Oss after their student hits a nice move then it can be used as complimentary approval. In other words, Oss is generally a good thing and is quite a lighthearted way of saying hello or well done.
When not to use Oss
Firstly, if you insist on saying it, don’t overdo it which can come across as cringy. Secondly, it should only be said as a good thing. For instance, if you tap someone out then don’t shout Oss as it’s disrespectful. Secondly, if someone fails a move or doesn’t perform a technique properly, then once again you should not say Oss.
In other words, there’s a time and a place for everything. In more serious gyms and environments, it may be seen as too casual as well. If you want a deep dive into BJJ, then you can always accompany your Oss with a shaka hand sign too for full effect!
What are other words like Oss?
In fairness, Oss is a pretty unique word and is one of its own. However, if you’ve trailed with some hardcore Brazilians then you may have heard other terms too. Sometimes, if you do something good in sparring, a Brazilian coach may shout ‘Oopaah’ which is kind of the same thing.
This isn’t to be mistaken with the term used for bridging too which sounds similar. Typically though, this term is pretty rare and is only done by the biggest of stereotypes where BJJ is concerned.
Where did Oss originally come from?
As mentioned earlier, Oss is actually not a Portuguese word but instead comes from Japan. This was originally used in Judo which isn’t surprising as this martial art directly influenced BJJ. Here, Oss would be used to ask someone.
Obviously, since then its meaning has changed and these days its definition is pretty fluid, meaning it doesn’t have a fixed definition and really depends on the context. Unsurprisingly then, Oss is also used in Judo and Karate where it is often accompanied with a bow when greeting someone.
If you’re a fan of the term Oss and want to express your admiration in other ways then check out this cool Oss gi.
