Prophylaxis (chess)

Prophylaxis (Greek προφυλακτικος, "prophylaktikos," to guard or prevent beforehand) or a prophylactic move stops the opponent from taking action in a certain area for fear of some type of reprisal. Prophylatic moves are aimed at not just improving one's position, but preventing the opponent from improving his.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

In a more strategic sense, prophylaxis leads to a very positional game, often frustrating for players with a strong tactical orientation. Players who practice prophylaxis continue frustrating initiating tactics with unpleasant tactical consequences until the opponent commits a tactical error.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Famous practitioners include:

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

• Aron Nimzowitsch
• Tigran Petrosian
• Anatoly Karpov