j’adoube: chess term
j’adoube
Definition
“J’adoube” is a French expression meaning “I adjust.” In chess, a player says “j’adoube” (or the English equivalent “I adjust”) before touching a piece to indicate they are only straightening or centering it on its square, not attempting to move it. This declaration exempts the player from the touch-move obligation for that touch.
How it is used in chess
Under the touch-move rule, if you deliberately touch one of your pieces on your turn, you must move it if a legal move exists. Saying “j’adoube” before touching a piece signals that you are not committing to a move; you are merely adjusting the piece on its current square.
- Say “j’adoube” clearly and audibly before touching any piece to adjust it.
- Adjust gently; do not displace the piece to a new square.
- Your clock keeps running while you adjust; adjustment happens on your time.
- If it is not your move, you should ask for the arbiter’s (or opponent’s, per local rules) permission before adjusting.
- Do not say “j’adoube” after you have already touched a piece; that does not cancel touch-move.
Rules context and arbiter guidance
FIDE Laws of Chess permit the player to adjust pieces on their squares provided the intention is stated beforehand (e.g., by saying “j’adoube” or “I adjust”). The phrase protects the player from being forced to move a touched piece because the contact is explicitly for adjustment, not play.
- Scope: You may adjust one or more pieces on their squares (typically your own; if an opponent’s piece appears misaligned, it is polite to ask permission first).
- Timing: Preferably on your turn. If it is not your turn, obtain permission before adjusting.
- Abuse: Repeated, unnecessary “adjustments” or attempts to distract the opponent can be penalized.
- Blitz/Rapid: The same principle applies—state intent before touching. Misuse can still result in touch-move claims or penalties.
Strategic and practical significance
While “j’adoube” does not affect the position, it plays an important role in sportsmanship and clarity:
- Prevents disputes: Declaring adjustment avoids arguments over whether a touch required a move.
- Maintains concentration: Clearly signaling intentions reduces tension and keeps both players focused.
- Time management: Adjust on your time; do not expect clock pauses unless an arbiter intervenes.
- Psychology: Good etiquette—brief, calm, and infrequent use—reflects professionalism and avoids unsettling your opponent.
Examples
Example 1 (basic use): During your turn you notice your knight on f3 is slightly off-center. You say “j’adoube,” center the knight on f3, then continue thinking and later play 5. O-O.
Example 2 (clear declaration before touch): In the Ruy Lopez, after 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6, White notices the pawn on e4 is crooked. White says “j’adoube,” gently centers the pawn on e4, and then plays 5. O-O. The touch does not force White to move the e4-pawn because the intention to adjust was stated first.
Don’t example (touch-move applies): It’s your turn and you casually pick up your queen on d1 to “straighten” it without saying anything. Your opponent claims touch-move; if the arbiter agrees you touched with the intention to move (or failed to declare intent), you may be required to move the queen if a legal move exists.
Pronunciation and variants
Pronounced approximately “zhah-DOOB.” Common variants include simply saying “I adjust” (English) or “adjusting.” In some countries, the native language equivalent is used, but “j’adoube” is widely recognized internationally.
Historical and cultural notes
The phrase is French because French long served as the lingua franca of international chess and diplomacy. Over time it became standardized in tournament practice. Legendary players—Fischer, Karpov, Kasparov, and others—were meticulous about touch-move and piece adjustment etiquette, reinforcing its role in fair play.
Common pitfalls
- Saying it too late: Declaring after touching a piece will not retroactively protect you from touch-move.
- Overuse: Frequent “adjustments” can be seen as distracting and may be penalized.
- Adjusting on opponent’s time: If it isn’t your move, do not touch the board without permission.
- Moving while adjusting: “Adjust” means centering on the same square; sliding to another square is a move and subject to the laws governing moves.
Related terms
Quick checklist
- Before touching any piece to center it, say “j’adoube” or “I adjust.”
- Adjust gently, on your time, and only as needed.
- If it’s not your move, get permission first.
- Avoid using adjustment as a distraction; keep it brief and respectful.