lépéskényszer

Lépéskényszer is a Hungarian term that translates directly to "compulsion to move" or "urgenge to step." It is primarily used in the context of chess to describe a specific game situation.

In chess, a player is in lépéskényszer when it is their turn to move, but any legal move they make will significantly worsen their position, often leading to a loss of material or checkmate. This occurs when a player has a limited number of legal moves available, and all of those moves are disadvantageous. The opponent has essentially cornered the player, forcing them into a detrimental action.

The concept of lépéskényszer is closely related to the concept of "zugzwang" in German chess terminology, which describes a similar situation where a player is disadvantaged by having to move. While the terms are often used interchangeably, some chess theorists distinguish subtle differences. Lépéskényszer specifically emphasizes the "forced" nature of the disadvantageous move.

Recognizing and creating situations of lépéskényszer is a key strategic element in chess. Players aim to maneuver their opponent into such a position where their only available moves lead to their downfall. Conversely, players must be aware of potential lépéskényszer situations and try to avoid them by maintaining flexibility in their own moves. It represents a state of strategic defeat where the burden of moving itself becomes a penalty.