先手
Meanings
moving first; first move
Refers to acting before an opponent or counterpart, often in competitive or strategic contexts. Can also refer to the person who makes the first move.
Take the initiative and attack first.
forestalling; seizing the initiative
Emphasizes preempting an opponent's action to gain an advantage. Often used in phrases like 先手を打つ (to take preemptive measures).
See also: 後手
We preempted our rival company and announced the new product first.
sente (Go/shogi); initiative-forcing move
In Go and shogi, a move that demands a response from the opponent, allowing the player to keep the initiative. Contrasts with 後手 (gote).
See also: 後手
This move becomes a big sente.
Usage patterns
- 〈相手〉に先手を取られるto have the initiative seized by (an opponent)
Because I let my guard down, my opponent seized the initiative.
- 先手で〈動詞〉to do something while holding the initiative
Attacking while holding the initiative is the key to winning.