Positional and Endgame Concepts
Opposition
Definition
Opposition is an endgame situation where two kings face each other with an odd distance (1, 3, or 5 squares) on the same file, rank, or diagonal. The player NOT to move "has the opposition" because the opponent must move and will fall into zugzwang.
Usage and Example
Example: white king on e5, black king on e7. If black to move, white "has the opposition", black must step aside, for example 1...Kd7 2.Kf6 or 1...Kf7 2.Kd6, and the white king reaches rank 6 by outflanking. Opposition is a foundational K plus P vs K technique.
Grandmaster Tier Context
T2 Club through T5 Master. Opposition must be drilled 20-30 positions until reflex to convert winning pawn endgames. Grandmaster coaches test opposition understanding before promoting to T3.