fool's mate (B2)
noun phrase
Pronunciation: /fuːlz ˈmeɪt/
Definition
A checkmate pattern in chess where a player is checkmated in just two moves, often due to a series of weak moves by the opponent.
Examples
The beginner fell victim to the fool's mate, losing the game in just two moves.
The chess player was embarrassed to have been checkmated by the fool's mate, a mistake she wouldn't normally make.
The fool's mate is a common trap that beginners should be aware of to avoid losing games quickly.
How to Use fool's mate
- fall victim to the fool's mate (idiom)
- to be checkmated in just two moves, often due to a series of weak moves — "The beginner fell victim to the fool's mate, losing the game in just two moves."
- avoid the fool's mate (idiom)
- to avoid being checkmated in just two moves, often by playing carefully and avoiding weak moves — "The experienced player knew how to avoid the fool's mate, and won the game easily."
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