Positional and Endgame Concepts
Tempo
Definition
Tempo is a unit of time (one half-move) in chess. Gain tempo: you force opponent to move reactively while you advance with a plan. Lose tempo: you move the same piece twice while other pieces need development. Tempo is the strategic currency unit in opening and endgame.
Usage and Example
Example gain tempo: you develop a bishop with a check threat, opponent must respond (reactive move). Example lose tempo: you move a knight to f3, then to g5, then back to f3 without a clear benefit.
Grandmaster Tier Context
T2 Club through T5 Master. Central concept in opening theory (every opening is evaluated on tempo balance). K plus P vs K endgame is won or drawn by 1 tempo triangulation.