Otosu is mainly considered to be a downward defense. However, otosu actually refers to all acts in a downward direction. In other words, otosu is the principle of downward movement. Therefore, the meaning and – more importantly – feeling, is much more deep then just the kanji’s translation.
Otoshi uke 落し受け
When considering minimum movement, otoshi uke should only be used when the attack travels a line located lower than your arms. Being passed left, right or above you should use uchi/soto/jodan uke instead. Otoshi uke refers to any act of downward receiving movement. Otoshi uke can affect the reach of the opponent as well as the balance. Depending on circumstance, you might add shifting of the body or change the direction to a diagonal down. In kata, principles are reflected through kaisetsu. One of the most characteristic reflection of otoshi principle (otoshi uke) is the first move of Pinan nidan as well as tate uraken from Seishan.
PRINCIPLES