dan

Definition

A ranking system in Japanese martial arts that indicates you've graduated from wearing a white belt to wearing a black belt, though there are apparently infinite levels of blackness. Each dan level represents another tier of mastery, proving that even when you think you're an expert, there's always some 80-year-old sensei with a 10th-dan who can still kick your butt. Think of it as the martial arts equivalent of academic degrees, but with more kicks.

Example Usage

He's a 3rd-dan in karate, which means he can break boards and also break down why your kata form is slightly off.

Source: Martial arts terminology

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