miai

Miai describes two moves or points that have roughly equivalent value or serve equivalent strategic purposes. A player can choose either one according to the position and the order of play, rather than searching for one uniquely correct move.

In practice, the player recognizes the pair, selects one alternative, and often keeps the other available as a follow-up. Playing the other move first may also produce a comparable result. This makes miai useful for evaluating positions, comparing candidate moves, and understanding strategic balance. The two choices are not necessarily identical in shape, timing, or exact numerical value: their equivalence is practical and specific to the position. Local tactics, sente, timing, and changes elsewhere on the board may make one preferable or cause the miai relationship to disappear.