A B C D E F G-H I-L M-N O P Q-R S T U-Z

Active: An aggressive move, line of play, or position. When mentioned in lieu of a player’s style, it denotes a preference for sharp, tactical or vibrant types of play.

Advantage: Having a superiority in position based on a particular imbalance or series of imbalances. See imbalance.

Analysis: The calculation of a series of moves in a given position. This can be done in actual tournament conditions (in which you are not allowed to touch the pieces) or in a calmer scenario in which the pieces can be moved about (such analysis is often written down for future study or reference). The purpose of analysis is to discover the best move or plan; there is no limit to its length.

Annotation: Written comments (prose, chess symbols or actual moves) about a position or game.

Attack: To make a threat or threats against a specific piece or area of the board.

A B C D E F G-H I-L M-N O P Q-R S T U-Z