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Wushu

2 stages from Chinese to English.

Today it means Chinese martial arts, especially as practiced in the modern competitive sport

Where does the word "wushu" come from? It comes from Chinese wǔshù, adopted directly into English (late 1900s).

wǔshù→wushu

Chinese · 20th century

"Chinese martial arts"

literally 'martial art', adopted as the official modern term covering Chinese fighting arts and sport forms

English · late 1900s

"Chinese martial arts, especially the modern competitive sport form"

borrowed as competitive wushu spread internationally through sport federations

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