Nxd5

Nxd5 is a chess move notation that describes a knight capturing a piece or pawn on the square d5. The N denotes a knight, the x indicates a capture, and d5 is the destination square. If two knights could move to d5, the moving knight’s origin file or rank is added before the destination to remove ambiguity (for example, Nbd5 or N1xd5).

In practical play, Nxd5 often arises in middlegames and openings that place pieces on central squares. Capturing on d5 removes a defender, tests the opponent’s central structure, and can open lines for other pieces. A knight landing on d5 frequently exerts pressure on neighboring squares such as c7, e7, f6, and b6, and may support further tactical ideas around the king or queen side. Conversely, a knight on d5 can become a target for pawn breaks or for minor-piece exchanges that relieve pressure.

Notation specifics and examples: if a knight on f4 captures a pawn on d5, the move is written Nfxd5. If a knight on b4 captures on d5, it is Nbxd5. When ambiguity exists, the origin file or rank is included before the x, for example Nbd5xd5 or N4xd5, depending on the position. Additions such as + or # indicate checks or checkmates resulting from the capture.

Overall, Nxd5 is a common tactical or positional resource in games that feature contested central squares and knight outposts.