My tempo

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Whichformermember

I am wondering what is tempo? I understand in general, but how it relates to chess is a mystery to me? If I have knight on outpost and opponent attacks, I retreat to 1st rank or so, is this losing tempo? 

 

Or is tempo only in regards to bullet/blitz games? 

 

Am already appreciating the help. 

toiyabe

Tempo in chess (much like music) has to do with time.  Gaining tempi is equivalent to "gaining moves," as your opponent generally has to retreat or respond to a threat, giving you time to play a "free move," or gain tempo.  

Whichformermember

Most helpful Fixing. Thank you.