In this blog series, I write down about 30 Chess Terms from a particular letter.
The row where the major pieces start the game.For White: 1st rankFor Black: 8th rank
A checkmate on the back rank when escape squares are blocked by your own pawns.
A bishop blocked by its own pawns.
Two or more pieces lined up together to attack.Example:Queen and rook on the same file.
A new chess player still learning the basics.
In arena tournaments, cutting your own time in half for extra points if you win.
The strongest move in a position according to analysis.
Trying to control the central squares.
A position that limits the opponent’s movement.
Having both bishops, often considered an advantage.
Giving up a bishop for tactical or attacking reasons.
Playing chess without seeing the board.
A fast chess format, usually 3–5 minutes per player.
A very bad move that loses material or position.
A move known from opening theory.
A computer program that plays chess.
A tactical pawn sacrifice to create a passed pawn or attack.
A powerful and surprising move, often involving sacrifice.
A time control system where a small amount of time is added after each move.
An ultra-fast chess format, usually under 3 minutes.
To completely refute an opening or idea.
A chess variant played with partners where captured pieces can be dropped back onto the board.
Creating a defensive setup the opponent cannot break through.
Stopping a pawn from advancing.
A pawn structure common in dynamic positions.
A surprising move played before the expected move.
An endgame involving bishops.
A piece tied to defending something important.
