false ko threat
A supposed ko threat that can safely be ignored because it does not create a serious enough consequence.
Also known as
A false ko threat is a purported ko threat that is not genuine, so it does not force the opponent to answer before continuing the ko. The opponent may ignore it and play the ko elsewhere because the threatened result is harmless, reversible, or otherwise not urgent enough.
Recognizing false ko threats prevents you from wasting ko threats and losing the initiative in a ko fight. Unlike a genuine ko threat, a false ko threat neither compels a reply nor creates a meaningful disadvantage when ignored. Its status depends on the exact board position: a move that is ineffective in one position may be a valid ko threat in another.
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