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TacticsLast Updated: 2026-07-18
Decoy
"A tactic that lures an enemy piece onto a specific square where another combination works."
In-Depth Explanation
A decoy attracts a piece to a bad square, while deflection usually pulls it away from a useful duty. Common decoys lure a king onto a mating line or a queen onto a square where it can be forked. Sacrifices are often the mechanism that makes the destination unavoidable.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does decoy mean in chess?
A tactic that lures an enemy piece onto a specific square where another combination works.
How can I practice decoy?
Look for decoy in themed puzzles, then review missed patterns in the analysis board without moving the pieces first.
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