light

In Go, light stones or play are flexible and efficient. They retain several options, are not easily burdened as a group, and can be difficult for the opponent to attack profitably. Light play commonly uses flexible movement and keeps stones loosely connected when appropriate. It may also accept the sacrifice or abandonment of some stones in order to preserve the initiative and maintain overall efficiency.

The aim is to preserve mobility and flexibility while avoiding inefficient heavy groups and excessive defensive obligations. Light is the opposite of heavy play: it describes flexibility and a willingness to sacrifice, not simply a small number of stones or a move that appears fast. Light play is not automatically good, however. Excessive looseness can leave cutting points, weak groups, or too little territorial value.