A backward pawn is a pawn in chess that is positioned behind its own pawns on the same file and cannot advance without being captured. This situation often arises when the pawn is unable to support itself with other pawns, making it a potential target for the opponent. Backward pawns can become weaknesses in a player's position, as they are often easier to attack. In strategic terms, backward pawns can limit a player's mobility and control of the board. They may also lead to a loss of tempo, as the player must spend moves defending the backward pawn instead of developing other pieces. Properly exploiting a backward pawn can provide a significant advantage in a game of chess.