In short: When the same position is reached with the moves in a different order. In that way one opening can turn into another.
A position is the same whatever order the moves came in. If White plays 1. Nf3 and 2. d4 instead of 1. d4 and 2. Nf3, the pieces can end up on exactly the same squares. When one opening turns into another in that way, it is called transposition.
The English Opening becomes a Queen's Gambit
Bobby Fischer usually opened with 1. e4. In the sixth game of the 1972 world championship match he played 1. c4 instead, the English Opening. After four moves the pieces stood as in a Queen's Gambit Declined.
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It was the first time Fischer played the Queen's Gambit in a serious game, and he played it flawlessly. See the whole game: Fischer–Spassky 1972.
Why the move order matters
The end point may be the same, but the road there decides which options your opponent gets. With a different order you can avoid a line you don't want, or lure your opponent into one you know better. That is why strong players often talk about move orders.
Some openings turn into others especially often. The English Opening (1. c4) and the Zukertort Opening (1. Nf3) often become a Queen's Gambit or one of the Indian defenses. Read also about variations.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the move order matter?
Because it decides which options your opponent gets along the way. With a different order you can avoid a line you don't want, or steer toward one you know better.
Which openings often turn into others?
The English Opening (1. c4) and the Zukertort Opening (1. Nf3) often turn into other openings, such as the Queen's Gambit or one of the Indian defenses.
Updated November 14, 2026
The starting position. Press ▶ or use the arrow keys.