Better-is annotation symbol

The ⌓ sign is read as “better is.” It precedes an alternative move and compares choices: the proposed continuation is preferable to the move just examined. By itself, it does not claim that the alternative is brilliant or produces a decisive advantage.

It belongs to the Chess Informant symbol system. Some databases associate it with proposed Numeric Annotation Glyph (NAG) $142. Portable Game Notation (PGN), the text format for storing and exchanging games, allows NAG numbers from $0 to $255, but its original specification assigns meanings only through $139 and reserves the rest. Different programs may therefore preserve $142 while showing another shape, a text label, or no glyph.

The comparison is always contextual. The sign may recommend a small improvement, a more accurate defense, or a line that avoids trouble. The following variation or comment must explain why the choice is better.