Discovered check: a practical example
Moving a bishop out of a rook's file may uncover a rook check against the opposing king. Because the opponent must answer the check, the moving bishop may be able to capture material or occupy a strong square with unusual freedom.
How to use the idea in your games
Calculate the opponent's legal check evasions. A discovered check is forcing, but it is not automatically winning if the king can move safely or the checking line can be blocked.
A useful study question
Can you explain discovered check in your own words, identify it in a position, and describe when the idea does not apply? Test the explanation on a legal board before relying on it.
Connect the ideas
Discovered attack, Check, Double check are useful next concepts. Follow the links to compare definitions and examples, then return to the complete chess glossary whenever an unfamiliar term appears.
Sources & further reading
References checked September 5, 2026. Linked services are independent of ChessRankings.com™.