A conventional action in the auction phase of contract bridge, it involves bidding an opponent’s suit to show strength and interest in game or slam. For instance, if the opponents open 1, a response of 2 would constitute this action. It isn’t a genuine desire to play in the opponent’s suit; instead, it is a signal to the partner regarding hand strength and specific suit holdings.
This technique serves as a crucial communication tool, facilitating precise evaluation of combined hand potential. Its use allows partnerships to explore ambitious contracts that might otherwise be missed, leading to potentially higher scores. Historically, the development of such conventions has significantly enhanced the sophistication and accuracy of bridge bidding systems, enabling expert players to reach optimal contracts more consistently.