quick translation help

[marklewk]

I'd like to begin a semi-informal study group for karate. i've been training for 20+ years. I'm looking for a word to describe a study group, practice group, etc that would meet at various locations. Dojo refers to a specific place which i dont yet have. Doukoukai is one possibility. If you could suggest some words to use, and comment on doukoukai, it would be most helpful.
Arigato gozaimasu.

[Sashimister]

Originally Posted by marklewk

I'd like to begin a semi-informal study group for karate. i've been training for 20+ years. I'm looking for a word to describe a study group, practice group, etc that would meet at various locations. Dojo refers to a specific place which i dont yet have. Doukoukai is one possibility. If you could suggest some words to use, and comment on doukoukai, it would be most helpful.
Arigato gozaimasu.

I can think of three for a starter.

練習会 （れんしゅうかい）
稽古会 （けいこかい）
勉強会 （べんきょうかい）

To my native Japanese ear, 同好会(どうこうかい) sounds a little bit off if you already belong to a 道場, but it might still be a choice.

[KyleGoetz]

Originally Posted by marklewk

I'd like to begin a semi-informal study group for karate. i've been training for 20+ years. I'm looking for a word to describe a study group, practice group, etc that would meet at various locations. Dojo refers to a specific place which i dont yet have. Doukoukai is one possibility. If you could suggest some words to use, and comment on doukoukai, it would be most helpful.
Arigato gozaimasu.

Not to be a total rudeguy, but why don't you use a word people will understand? Like "informal study group"?

If you don't know the Japanese word, what makes you think others will understand it?