4D Chess
An extremely complex strategy
Example
I don't know whether Jones is playing 4D chess in this election or just incredibly out of touch
¿Por qué no los dos?
4D chess definition by Slang.net
This page explains what the slang term "4D chess" means. The definition, example, and related terms listed above have been written and compiled by the Slang.net team.
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Unlike 3D chess, 4D chess is not a real game. Instead, people use 4D chess to describe unorthodox and/or convoluted strategies enacted by politicians, athletes, gamers, and other competitors.
The phrase 4D chess derives from chess's reputation as an incredibly complex game. If playing normal, 2D chess requires a sharp mind and keen strategy, the thinking goes, then playing 4D chess must require galaxy brain levels of strategic thought.
Therefore, if someone is said to be "playing 4D chess," they're likely making clever (and unanticipated) moves that are outfoxing their opponents. However, people sometimes use 4D chess sarcastically, to describe overly-complicated strategies that don't make sense and were always doomed to failure.