Pullback

A pullback is a move that draws a stone or group back from its previous position, usually away from an opposing stone or an exposed contact. The played stone is placed behind or alongside the existing stones, allowing the group to retreat, connect, or reduce its vulnerability.

The aim may be to escape pressure, reinforce the group, preserve a connection, or avoid an unfavorable continuation while keeping useful shape. Unlike sagari, which specifically descends toward the edge or along a side, a pullback describes the retreating function and can occur in various parts of the board. However, pulling back can be too submissive: it may give the opponent excessive outside influence or lose sente. Also called Hiki or Retreat.