An idiom describing (a) conceptual line(s) of focus, in a given context and at a given time.

Comments:

A Base Line is any point on which the practitioner focuses their attention.

A Base Line is literally a starting point at which a Point of Reference is set for any Base Move.

The Base Line is typically set to the (potential) Angle of Attack or Angle of Defense.

When applying the clock principle, the Base Line is often 12:00, but can easily be any point on the clock.  The Base Line isn't necessarily 12:00 when dealing with Angular Attacks.

A Base Line is a line of attention - not a plane or path of attention.  This allows for vertical, horizontal, or diagonal Base Lines - all on the same point of the clock, or not - but all at the same time.

Because an opponent can execute multiple weapons, simultaneously or in tandem, there can be, and often are, multiple Base Lines for a single opponent.

Because there can be multiple Base Lines at the same time, a Base Line can be formed from Peripheral Vision or any of the other senses, and does not have to be within the practitioner's Line of Sight.

There will always be multiple Base Lines when dealing with multiple opponents.

Example(s):

A straight punch executed from an opponent, at 12:00, would demonstrate a Base Line directed toward 12:00.

Synonym(s):

Attention, Point of Reference

Opposite(s):

Obscure

Related Definition(s):

Angle, Angular, Base, Obscure

Related Term(s):

Angle of Attack, Angle of Defense, Angular Attack, Line of Attack, Line of Sight, Obscure Zone, Path of Action, Reference Point, Zone Concept of Directional Movement