The name clearly refers to a solid sword breaker. If you interpret it as a "whip-like" movement/strength, then your understanding of the jin is completely wrong.
Um, well you have me at a Chinese disadvantage. I learned calling the movement single whip. In fact, I'd never heard that it referred to a "solid sword breaker" in my life. But, my ignorance in this art is unlimited. Otoh, if you could point to the part in SW that is similar to sword-breaking, that'd be cool.
I guess you'd be referring to the front (left) hand at the end of the movement. My point was that it wasn't all of SW, but I'd still argue that the movement is circular -even if it were a solid stick. I also mentioned the term sequential as a quality of "whipping," and I think that's how the body works. Like sticks connected by joints, like a chain, or a sectioned staff, and I'd say whip- but I'm not married to the term. It's just a description. Hey, if I said something you can't see or test for yourself, ignore it.
Afa the right hand and the hook (or beak). If applied as a hook, it's a hook. In General Qi's manual, looking carefully, the hand isn't (as?) hooked. However, imo, the idea of using a hook would be indicated by the application. Can you strike with the hooked hand? If the idea is to strike, then yeah -depending on where and how. Otoh, if the idea is to hook, then that's how it's used (if only to prepare a return strike)? Hmm, haven't most people tried that in practice sparring? I.e. a hook to an almost simultaneous strike?
But, the hook hand doesn't have to be restricted to the SW anymore than a punch be restricted to step forward parry downward punch. To me, that's simplistic and at the same time messy. The right tool for the right job.
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