noun
vital point; weak spot; tender spot
Refers to a physically vulnerable part of the body, such as the solar plexus or temple. Often used in martial arts or self-defense contexts.
ボクシングでは急所を狙うのは反則だ。
In boxing, targeting vital points is a foul.
彼は相手の急所を
He accurately struck his opponent's weak spot.
noun
crux; key point; heart of the matter
Figurative use for the most important or sensitive part of an issue, argument, or problem.
議論の急所は予算不足にある。
The crux of the debate lies in the budget shortfall.
彼の指摘は問題の急所を突いていた。
His remark hit the heart of the problem.
noun
Colloquial use for the male crotch as a target in fighting. Often used in the phrase 急所を蹴る (kick in the groin).
See also: 金的
彼は急所を蹴られて倒れた。
He was kicked in the groin and fell down.
noun
In the game of go, a critical intersection where a move can decide the outcome of a local fight or the whole game.
この局面では、ここが急所だ。
In this position, this is the vital point.