Konterangriff

Konterangriff is a term used to describe a counterattack, a tactical action aimed at responding to an initial attack by an opponent with a swift offensive move designed to regain the initiative. It seeks to exploit the momentary imbalance created by the attacker and to threaten the opponent's lines of operation from a position of relative strength. The word combines Konter- (counter) with Angriff (attack).

In military doctrine, a counterattack is planned or improvised after repelling a hostile assault. It often involves concentrated reserves, reconnaissance, and the element of surprise, with the goal of reclaiming lost ground, disrupting enemy cohesion, or turning the momentum of battle. Successful counterattacks depend on timing, mobility, and securing a suitable breakthrough point.

In team sports, a Konterangriff describes a fast transition from defense to offense after gaining possession. The objective is to exploit unorganized or outnumbered defenders by rapid runs, long passes, and precise finishing opportunities, thereby catching the opponent before they can organize their defense.

In chess, a Konterangriff (counterplay) arises when a player under attack responds by creating threats elsewhere, often provoking tactical complications and gaining initiative by forcing the opponent to defend against multiple dangers rather than pursuing the original plan.

See also: counterattack, counteroffensive.