Mathematical force
An objectively compulsory forcing move whose necessity follows from the rules and the position.
Mathematical force describes a forcing move that compels a response for an objective reason, not merely because it applies psychological pressure or offers an attractive option. Its necessity follows from the rules and the concrete position—for example, an unavoidable capture, connection, or life-and-death result.
To test whether a move has mathematical force, calculate what happens if it is ignored. If ignoring it produces a definite loss or a forced tactical result, the move is objectively compulsory. This is narrower than ordinary force or kikashi, which can depend on practical judgment; a move that is usually answered is not necessarily mathematically forcing. The term is specialized and is often covered by “forcing move” or kikashi in local Go terminology.
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