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Another explanation to the origin of “Osu!” is that it is a contraction of the two kanji symbols used to write the term “Oshi Shinobu” in Japanese:

Oshi Shinobu

Oshi
(means to press or to push)

Shinobu
(means patience, steady spirit, or to endure)

Thus, “Osu!” means, "to persevere while pushing oneself to the absolute limit.” This strength of character that develops from hard training is known as, “Osu no seishin” (the spirit of “Osu!”). It implies a willingness to push oneself to the limits of endurance, to persevere under any kind of pressure. However, “Osu!” is not just related to the development of extreme physical and mental strength. It also relates to moving beyond ego-centered thoughts of personal gain and loss toward the “way." For this reason, some use the term "moving Zen" to describe martial arts practice.

The use of “Osu!” first appeared in the Officers Academy of the Imperial Japanese Navy, in the early 20th century and later became common with karate students. This helped establish the rough masculine nature of the word.

Different greetings

Men and women's language usage differs more in Japanese than it does in English. There are distinct feminine and masculine expressions, and the Japanese find it inappropriate for women and men to use each other's language.

• Ohayo. Ohayo is a more familiar and intimate greeting used casually toward friends, neighbors, or coworkers. Customers would usually use the more formal "Ohayo Gozaimasu" because they are not part of the working in-group.

• Ohayossu or ohayoosu. This is a more athletic, male greeting. You might use this to greet a neighbor you do not know well when you meet him on the street.

• Ossu or oosu. This is very tough, rough masculine greeting used primarily by males engaged in athletic activities. It is generally aimed toward one's colleagues, not toward the coach, instructor, or other seniors. The greeting is usually avoided by women, unless they are involved in an athletic activity  in which the women use the word regularly.

• Oh. Th is an even rougher greeting than "Osu!". "Oh!" is considered a rougher, manlier, and potentially rude greeting.

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