Semi-Tarrasch Defense

Semi-Tarrasch Defense
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Moves1.d4 d5 2.c4 e6 3.Nc3 Nf6 4.Nf3 c5
ECOD40–D42
Named afterSiegbert Tarrasch
ParentQueen's Gambit Declined

The Semi-Tarrasch Defense is a chess opening characterized by the following moves:

1. d4 d5
2. c4 e6
3. Nc3 Nf6
4. Nf3 c5

The Semi-Tarrasch is a variation of the Queen's Gambit Declined. Unlike the regular Tarrasch Defense (3...c5), in the Semi-Tarrasch, Black does not need to accept an isolated pawn, since 5...Nxd5 can be played after the usual 5.cxd5. On the other hand, Black cedes a spatial advantage to White.

In the Encyclopedia of Chess Openings, the Semi-Tarrasch Defense has codes D40 through D42.