Check
To pass the action to the next player without betting, while retaining your cards. You can only check when no bet has been made in the current round. Checking can be used as a strategic tool to trap opponents, control pot size, or see free cards when you have a drawing hand.
Example
On the flop of K♠8♦3♣, you missed completely with your 5♠4♠. You check to the raiser, planning to fold if they bet, or see a free turn card if they check behind.
Where this matters
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Related Terms
See Also
- Slow-Play- Playing a very strong hand passively (checking or calling) to disguise its strength and extract more...
- Check-Raise- To check when it is your turn to act, then raise after an opponent bets. The check-raise is a powerf...