The primary goal of fencing is to score points by hitting your opponent's valid target area with your weapon while avoiding being hit yourself.

In modern fencing, the three main weapons used are the foil, épée, and saber, each with its unique characteristics and rules.

In foil fencing, the valid target area is the torso, excluding the arms and head. Touches on the arms, head, or legs do not score points.

In épée fencing, the entire body is considered a valid target area. Touches anywhere on the body, including the arms, head, and legs, score points.

In saber fencing, the valid target area is the entire body above the waist, including the arms and head. Touches on the legs do not score points.

In fencing, a valid touch is called a "touché" (pronounced "too-SHAY").

When both fencers hit each other simultaneously, it is called a "simultaneous hit" or "double hit".

In individual fencing bouts, the maximum time allowed is 3 minutes. In team fencing bouts, the maximum time is 9 minutes.

The fencer who has scored more points than their opponent during a bout is called the "leader".

The fencer who has scored fewer points than their opponent during a bout is called the "trailing" fencer.

A fencer who is disqualified from a bout is said to be "ejected".

A fencer who sustains an injury during a bout is said to be "injured".

A fencer who chooses to end their participation in a bout is said to be "retiring".

A fencer who scores more points than their opponent and emerges victorious from a bout is called the "winner".

A fencer who scores fewer points than their opponent and is defeated in a bout is called the "loser".