Ne3

Ne3 is a chess notation referring to a knight moving to the square e3. In algebraic notation, the move is written Ne3 when only one knight can legally reach e3. If two knights can move to e3, the originating file or rank is added to disambiguate, producing examples such as Nce3 or Nge3. If the knight captures a piece on e3, the move is written Nxe3; if it gives check, a plus sign is appended (Nxe3+), and a mate would be indicated with a hash (Nxe3#).

Strategic role: A knight landing on e3 often aims to establish a centralized, protected outpost that controls important central squares and supports a range of plans. From e3, a knight attacks c2, c4, d1, d5, f1, f5, g2, and g4, influencing both defense and attack. The move can facilitate pawn breaks, and it may prepare or support attacks on the kingside or in the center, depending on the surrounding structure and piece placement.

Typical contexts: Ne3 arises in various pawn structures and openings where a knight seeks central influence rather than immediate tension. It can be part of development schemes in openings that emphasize flexible piece placement, prophylaxis, or preparing thematic pushes such as f4 or d4.

Disambiguation note: Because two knights could sometimes reach e3, notation may require clarification with a letter or number (e.g., Nce3 or Nge3). This ensures the move is unambiguous in printed or displayed game records.