back-rank mate (B2)
noun phrase
Pronunciation: /bæk.ræŋk.meɪt/
Definition
A checkmate pattern in chess where the attacking player's rook or queen delivers the final blow from the back rank, usually with the king blocked by its own pawns or pieces.
Examples
The back-rank mate is a powerful tactic that can catch opponents off guard.
To execute a back-rank mate, you need to carefully position your pieces to block the king's escape routes.
The back-rank mate is often considered a beginner's tactic, but it can still be effective in more advanced games.
How to Use back-rank mate
- set up a back-rank mate (verb phrase)
- to position pieces to deliver a back-rank mate — "She set up a back-rank mate by moving her rook to the back rank."
- fall into a back-rank mate (verb phrase)
- to lose a game due to a back-rank mate — "He fell into a back-rank mate and lost the game."
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