Discovered check is a term used in chess to describe a move where a player puts the opponent's King in check with another piece. The spelling of this term follows standard English phonetic rules. "Discovered" is pronounced as dɪˈskʌvərd and "check" is pronounced as tʃɛk. When combined, the stress shifts to the second syllable, resulting in "discovered check" pronounced as dɪˈskʌvərd tʃɛk. This term is commonly used among chess enthusiasts and players as it can be a crucial move in the game.
The term "discovered check" originates from the game of chess and refers to a strategic move in which one player simultaneously puts their opponent's king in check while unveiling an attack on another piece as a result of moving one of their own pieces. This maneuver involves sacrificing a less valuable piece in order to create a double threat, placing immediate pressure on the opponent by jeopardizing the safety of their king, and simultaneously presenting a potential capture or check to another valuable piece.
When executing a discovered check, the concealed piece moves to reveal a line of attack from another piece of the same side, which was previously obstructed. By engaging in this tactic, the player aims to take advantage of their opponent's vulnerability, forcing them to react defensively and potentially lose a significant piece, or risk placing their king in danger.
This strategic tactic can be executed both offensively and defensively, depending on the positions and strategic advantage the player wishes to achieve. The key element of a discovered check lies in the surprise factor, catching the opponent off-guard. Skilled chess players utilize this maneuver to gain a positional advantage, initiate a material gain, or even force checkmate by exploiting the opponent's limited options in response to the simultaneous threats.
The term "discovered check" in the context of chess has a straightforward etymology.
- "Discovered" comes from the English word "discover", which is derived from the Middle English "discoveren". It ultimately traces back to the Old French word "descovrir", meaning "to uncover" or "to reveal".
- "Check" in the game of chess refers to a move where a player's king is directly attacked by an opponent's piece.
Put together, a "discovered check" describes a specific chess move where one piece moves, uncovering an attack on the opponent's king by another piece.