Probe

A Probe, also called Yosumi or Yosu-miru, is a move played to test how the opponent will respond and to gather information about the position. It is often made lightly near the opponent’s stones or area of influence, without committing immediately to one fixed continuation.

The opponent’s reply—or the choice not to reply—can reveal intentions, expose weaknesses, or help decide between competing plans. Unlike a purely forcing move, a probe is primarily an information-gathering test and does not necessarily demand an immediate answer. Timing matters: a probe may be mistimed, met flexibly, or turn into an unfavorable exchange if the opponent gains more from the interaction.