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RulesLast Updated: 2026-07-18
Touch-Move Rule
"A tournament rule requiring a deliberately touched piece to be moved or captured when legal."
In-Depth Explanation
A player who deliberately touches a friendly piece must move it if a legal move exists; touching an enemy piece requires its capture when legal. To adjust a piece without intending to move it, say j'adoube or I adjust before touching it. Online chess does not use touch-move.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does touch-move rule mean in chess?
A tournament rule requiring a deliberately touched piece to be moved or captured when legal.
How can I practice touch-move rule?
Study model positions, explain the idea in your own words, and test the key decisions on the interactive board.
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