j'adoube

/ ʒadub /

interjection

1. chess an expression of an intention to touch a piece in order to adjust its placement rather than to make a move

Word History and Origins

Origin of j'adoube¹

literally: I adjust

Example Sentences

The “j’adoube” statement is the customary announcement when a player wishes to center or adjust one of his or his opponent’s pieces, but according to the Laws of Chess this must be done before touching the piece, or the mover risks yielding a forfeit.

From Literature

In contrast, Bobby was strictly observant of this rule and said “j’adoube” first whenever he touched a piece to straighten it.

From Literature

He must say j’adoube before touching his piece.

From Project Gutenberg

"J'adoube," "I adjust," or words to that effect, cannot protect a player from any of the penalties imposed by these laws, unless the man or men touched, obviously need adjustment, and unless such notification be distinctly uttered before the man, or men, be touched, and only the player whose turn it is to move is allowed so to adjust.

From Project Gutenberg

If a player touches a piece with the sole object of adjusting its position, he must apprise his opponent of his intention by saying "J'adoube" beforehand.

From Project Gutenberg