noun
strategic stone placement in go; opening moves in go
Go term: the arrangement of stones in the early stage of a game to build a favorable position.
序盤の布石が勝敗を大きく左右する。
The opening stone placement greatly influences the outcome of the game.
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru', transitive verb
preparations; groundwork; laying the foundation
Figurative extension from go: advance preparations or steps taken to ensure future success. Often used in business, politics, or project planning.
新事業の布石として、まず市場調査を行った。
As groundwork for the new business, we first conducted market research.
彼の行動は将来の立候補に向けた布石だと言われている。
His actions are said to be preparations for a future candidacy.