Taunt is a status move that prevents the target from using status moves for a few turns, so they’re forced to use attacking moves instead.

Quick Scoop

  • What it does: shuts down moves like setup, healing, sleep, stat boosts, and other non-damaging moves.
  • Duration: it usually lasts 3 turns , though older games and some formats have different timings.
  • Battle use: it’s great for stopping defensive or stall strategies and forcing an opponent to attack.

Important notes

  • If the target only knows status moves , Taunt can force it into Struggle.
  • Taunt ends if the target switches out.
  • In many games, it can still affect a Pokémon behind Substitute.

If you want, I can also explain which moves Taunt blocks and how to use it well in battle.