perpetual check

noun

Chess.

1. a continuing series of checks resulting in a drawn game because they cannot be halted or evaded without resulting in checkmate or a serious disadvantage.

2. the situation in which this occurs.

perpetual check

noun

1. chess a consecutive series of checks that the checked player cannot avoid, leading to a drawn game

Word History and Origins

Origin of perpetual check¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

Qg8+ Kf6, and then throws away the draw by eschewing perpetual check with 65.

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Qxg6, and White has a perpetual check in hand and a little threat of 21.

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Nxd2, Black has a perpetual check with 22…Ne4+ 23.

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Truth be told, White wasn’t taking much of a risk, as he has a perpetual check already if he wants it.

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Rg3+ Kh6 and White, down a boatload of material, has nothing better than perpetual check.

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