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In the present paper it has been discussed the physical meaning of J-integral when it is applied to sharply V-notched components by calculating it along acircular path (JV). Consider a Cartesian reference frame having the x axis parallel tothe notch bisector, JV, for a given circular path, is proportional to the energy releaserate of a virtual crack having length equal to the path radius and emanating from thetip of a V-notch. Analytical and numerical results have been performed for linearelastic materials. Finally, as an engineering application, fatigue analysis of weldedjoints made by using the JV parameter has been discussed without taking into accountthe real path direction.