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Opposition and Zugzwang in Chess Endgames

Opposition and zugzwang are two of the most powerful tools in endgame play. They allow you to win or hold positions with just a king and pawn—and appear in many critical endgame decisions. Mastering these ideas gives you a major edge in tight games.

1. What Is Opposition?

When two kings face each other, the player NOT to move has the opposition.
It gives you control over key squares and forces the enemy king to give ground.
Vital in king and pawn endings where the first to invade wins.

2. Types of Opposition

Direct Opposition: Kings face off with one square between them.
Distant Opposition: Kings are separated by an odd number of squares.
Diagonal Opposition: Less common but works similarly in angled positions.

3. What Is Zugzwang?

A position where any legal move worsens your position—being forced to move loses the game.
Common in pawn endgames, king activity, and bishop vs pawn endings.
Usually occurs when one side runs out of useful waiting moves.

4. Classic Examples to Study

King on e4 vs king on e6: White to move loses opposition, Black to move loses ground.
Triangulation: A maneuver to return to the same position but give the move to your opponent.
Zugzwang trap: A king steps aside, forcing a loss of opposition or promotion defense.

5. Practice and Application