Extension/ Discussion

Other extensions  

This figure shows some more common extensions. is an extension from the enclosure on the left. Next White extends to to form a base for the white stones. Black plays , extending from the corner stone in order to prevent a white double kakari.

Black 3 is an extension in reply to an attachment  

is a three space pincer that aims at the attack of the solitary white stone.

Why so far? This is only one of the possibilities. The purpose is to deny White a two space extension. If it communicates well with stones on the lower side it is the best move.

is an invitation to choose: the side or the corner? Note that an attachment is usually played by the locally-weaker side, not by a stronger one.

chooses the side. It is the extension (stretch) in the diagram.

The most probable continuation  

takes what is left - the corner. is a pleasant move to play. It is forcing, threatening White's base.

White has no choice but to make another extension.

Black plays keima along the side. This play has several purposes. It is a hint at a possible further extension along the top, and also against the surrounding white stones in the corner. It is high (fourth line), so is more useful for fighting.

Everything stops for some time here, because the value of the moves temporarily drops. White can build eyes in the corner or in the center when attacked. Playing a at the moment is not big enough. For Black, exchanging a for a white stone in the center is not favourable. Both sides wait for the development in other areas. At some point of the game a will become urgent.

--HolIgor

A stretch  

Black 1 is sometimes called an extension but should more properly be called a stretch. It is rock-solid, but not very good at expanding territory. It is usually only played when the stone being aided must be fortified.

This kind of extension is known as nobi or iron pillar.