Wednesday Word: Zugzwang

[calzephyr77.livejournal.com]

Zugzwang - noun.

Chess nerds and game lovers will recognize this word immediately--it's a German word describing the moment when you have to make move to your own detriment. It translates to "compulsion to move" and we've all been there where we had to make a move we didn't want to.

If you're interested in a deeper explanation, especially when it comes to chess, you can check out the very thorough section on Wikipedia or watch the video below, which includes pronunciation.

Comments

[full-metal-ox.livejournal.com]

Chess nerds, game fans, and Criminal Minds viewers; “Zugzwang” was the title of an episode that infamously killed off a popular potential love interest.

[calzephyr77.livejournal.com]

Oh! I never got into watching Criminal Minds. I'll see if it's on one of our streaming services.

[sallymn.livejournal.com]

I love this word :)

[calzephyr77.livejournal.com]

It would be perfect for a story. I can see the villain (or hero) uttering it at a critical moment.