What does check mean in xiangqi?
These answers restate the rules implemented by our open-source engine, which follows the WXF laws and is regression-tested against the official 110-diagram repetition casebook. Where an answer refers to a specific position, that position lives on the linked reference page, where the build verifies it against the engine before publishing.
Direct answer
Check (將軍, jiāngjūn) means the general is under attack and the player must deal with it immediately — by capturing the attacker, blocking the line, or moving the general. You are not required to announce it, and any move that leaves your own general in check is simply illegal.
The three answers to a check
- Capture the checking piece.
- Block the line between it and your general — which does not work against a horse, and against a cannon adds a screen rather than removing one.
- Move the general, within the palace, to a point that is not attacked.
If none of the three is available, it is checkmate and you have lost.
The check people forget
Moving a piece out from between the two generals is illegal, because it would leave them facing each other — which counts as your own general being exposed. This is the most common illegal move a new player tries, and a good board will refuse it with the reason.
Related questions
Do you have to say "check" in xiangqi?
No. It is optional and, in serious play, not done. Your opponent is responsible for seeing it.
Can you move into check?
No. Any move leaving your own general attacked — including exposing it to the enemy general down an open file — is illegal.
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