English Defense

The English Defense commonly begins with Black advancing the e-pawn and b-pawn against White's pawns on d4 and c4. Coordinates such as d4 identify a square by its file and rank. Advancing the b-pawn clears b7 for the light-squared bishop. Developing a bishop behind a side pawn onto a long diagonal is called a fianchetto.

Black does not immediately occupy the center with several pawns. White may also advance the e-pawn and build a broad center, which Black later attacks with pieces, a bishop check on b4, or an f-pawn advance. A broad center gives space, meaning more useful squares behind the pawns, but it can also create targets if the pawns advance too far and stop supporting one another.

What each side must watch

• White should develop pieces before pushing every central pawn and check whether the b7-bishop or a check on b4 creates a concrete threat.
• Black must challenge the center at the right moment. If the pieces only surround it without opening lines, White keeps the space at little cost.