Bunkai (分解), literally meaning “analysis” or “disassembly”, is a term used in Japanese martial arts referring to process of analysing kata and extracting fighting techniques from the movements of a “form” (kata). The extracted fighting techniques are called Oyo. When used in the context of Karate, bunkai symbolizes the whole process of breaking down the movements of a kata to understand how the techniques can be applied in self-defense. In other words, bunkai is the essence of kata. You see, kata was never meant to be used as a standalone solo exercise.
