Zugzwang
Zugzwang is a chess position where you'd be fine if you could pass — but you must move, and every legal move makes things worse.
Full definition of Zugzwang →:: COMPARE ::
ZugzwangvsStalemate
The short answer
Stalemate is having NO legal move, which draws the game. Zugzwang is having legal moves and wishing you didn't. The first is a rule that rescues you; the second is a rule that convicts you.
Side by side
| Aspect | Zugzwang | Stalemate |
|---|---|---|
| Legal moves | Available | None |
| Result | You worsen | Draw |
| The rule | Hurts you | Saves you |
| Wish | To pass | To move |
What each one means
Stalemate
The contrast above sets out how Stalemate differs from Zugzwang on the points that actually matter.