h6, g6 rationale

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barryoglick
Hello!  I have been playing chess for about a year, but still consider myself a beginner because I cannot understand certain moves that don't involve immediate threats to me or attacks from me.  In the above diagram (hope it comes through), my opponent moved h6 and Chess.com analysis said it was an inaccuracy and gave g6 as an option.  For me, neither makes any sense.  Perhaps h6 makes space to retreat the knight, but g6 I have no idea.  What is the long term idea of either h6 or g6 or is it what they sometimes call a "waiting" move?  Any help will be appreciated.  I have people who advise me, but they have no idea how little I know.  Thank you.!
Barry Glick

blueemu

White is threatening e5, attacking the Knight on f6. If it moves, the Pawn on h7 will be hanging to the d3-Bishop and the h1-Rook.

That's the issue that both h6 and g6 seek to address.

barryoglick
Thanks so much. It’s clear, now.