Dude is grappled. I evil eye him to give him -2 to "attack rolls." Does that penalty apply to his attempts to break the grapple?
Why do they differentiate between attack rolls and combat maneuver checks in the description of the grappled condition then?
So then...
...Why do they differentiate between attack rolls and combat maneuver checks in the description of the grappled condition then?
Dude is grappled. I evil eye him to give him -2 to "attack rolls." Does that penalty apply to his attempts to break the grapple?
Yes.
When you attempt to perform a combat maneuver, make an attack roll and add your CMB in place of your normal attack bonus. Add any bonuses you currently have on attack rolls due to spells, feats, and other effects...Combat maneuvers are attack rolls, so you must roll for concealment and take any other penalties that would normally apply to an attack roll.
Emphasis mine.
Why do they differentiate between attack rolls and combat maneuver checks in the description of the grappled condition then?
A grappled creature is restrained by a creature, trap, or effect. Grappled creatures cannot move and take a –4 penalty to Dexterity. A grappled creature takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls and combat maneuver checks, except those made to grapple or escape a grapple. In addition, grappled creatures can take no action that requires two hands to perform. A grappled character who attempts to cast a spell or use a spell-like ability must make a concentration check (DC 10 + grappler's CMB + spell level), or lose the spell. Grappled creatures cannot make attacks of opportunity.
Emphasis mine (again).
"...on attack rolls and combat maneuver checks..." is redundant. It is poorly written. Perhaps the writer thought that would add clarity for someone new quickly looking up the condition. Perhaps it added length and you can charge more money for a larger book. Perhaps the person who penned it didn't even realize they were being repetitive.
Roger.