Almost sente
A move whose follow-up is forcing in value, even though the first move may be ignored.
Almost sente is a move that gains much of its force from an expected follow-up in sente. The initial move creates a threat or positional situation in which the next move would be forcing, but the opponent can reasonably choose not to answer the first move. Unlike true sente, the opponent is therefore not necessarily compelled to respond immediately.
This concept helps evaluate move order, the value of a follow-up, and whether tenuki is safe or profitable. Whether a move qualifies as almost sente depends on the position, the value of the follow-up, and whether the opponent can profitably ignore the initial move. A strong follow-up does not by itself make every preparatory move almost sente: the opponent’s practical options and resulting gains must also be considered.
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