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overconcentrated shape

An inefficient formation whose stones are packed too closely to produce enough additional value.

Also known as

overconcentration

An overconcentrated shape is an inefficient formation in which stones are clustered too densely. Once an area is already well developed, another stone there may add little value compared with playing elsewhere. The stones reinforce an established area rather than extending influence, securing territory, or responding to a more urgent weakness.

Overconcentration is a defect of efficiency, not the same thing as thickness. Thickness is strong and useful; however, even a thick group can become overconcentrated when it is reinforced without sufficient reason. A concentrated shape may still be correct when tactical safety, an attack, or life-and-death requirements justify adding stones.