Outflanking

Outflanking means going around the opposing king instead of trying to push straight through it. One king forces the other to step aside and then advances through the newly opened flank. The goal is usually to penetrate, attack a pawn, or support a friendly pawn's promotion.

Opposition, where the kings face each other with one square between them, can force that sidestep. Gaining opposition is not the final objective, however. Progress occurs when the active king uses the space gained and reaches a useful square.

Outflanking can also arise inside a system of corresponding squares. Perfect symmetry is not always desirable. Once the opponent can no longer stop a side entry, giving up opposition and penetrating immediately may be stronger.