Gambit

A gambit is an opening in which a player deliberately sacrifices material, usually a pawn, in the first few moves. In return they hope for faster development, control of the center, or attacking chances.

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1.d4d52.c4dxc4

Famous gambits:

• Queen’s Gambit: 1. d4 d5 2. c4.
• King’s Gambit: 1. e4 e5 2. f4.
• Stafford Gambit: a trap-filled gambit for Black.

If the opponent takes the offered material, the gambit is accepted. If not, it is declined.

Related terms: Fork · Chess notation