Semi-Bluff
半诈唬
A semi-bluff is a bet or raise with a hand that currently trails but has reasonable potential to improve to the best hand. Semi-bluffs are powerful because they have two ways to win: the opponent may fold immediately (fold equity), or you may hit your draw and win at showdown. This makes semi-bluffs much more profitable than pure bluffs.
Example
You hold A♥ T♥ on a K♥ 7♥ 2♠ flop and raise your opponent's bet — you have a flush draw as backup.
Related Terms
More Strategy Terms
GTO (Game Theory Optimal)
A mathematically unexploitable strategy derived from game theory.
Bluff
Betting or raising with a weak hand to induce opponents to fold better hands.
Exploitative Play
A strategy that specifically targets and exploits opponents' tendencies and weaknesses.
Float
Calling a bet in position with a weak hand, planning to bluff if checked to on the next street.
Slow Play
Playing a strong hand passively to disguise its strength and trap opponents.
Linear Range (Condensed)
A range containing hands ranked by strength, from strongest to a cutoff point, without gaps.