Friday word: Zugzwang

[med_cat]

Apologies for being late. I bring you a z-word:
~~
Zugzwang: in chess, a situation where one must make a move, but no matter what move one makes, it will weaken one's position.

I've seen it used figuratively in the last year or so, in reference to political decisions...

You can read more details on the original meaning in this article from Wikipedia

Comments

[subsub1.livejournal.com]

Actually if used figuratively, 'Zugzwang' is used for a situation that forces you to make a decision, but it does not necessarily mean it will be a disadvantage (as it will be in chess). You just cannot not make a move (e.g. just wait for the outcome).

[med_cat]

OK, thanks for the info! :)