Plain-English Definition
Bad bishops can defend important squares, but they struggle when locked behind their own pawns with no useful targets.
Why It Matters
It shows how pawn structure and piece value are tied together.
Common Signs in Games
- A bishop is blocked by friendly pawns.
- A pawn break can free the bishop.
- The opponent knight can dominate fixed squares.
Common Mistakes
- Trading the opponent bad bishop for your active knight.
- Forgetting bad bishops can still defend.
- Fixing the pawns on your bishop color.