To be a successful poker player online, you must understand all the most common poker terms. Here are 5 of the most common poker terms used when describing online poker plays, whether it be in poker tournaments, poker ring games, or other important poker events.

Bluff

A bluff is one of the most commonly used tactics in online Texas Holdem poker. Basically, a bluff is when a player is trying to represent a hand that is stronger than what they currently hold. For example, a player may bet aggressively if he senses weakness amongst the other players at the table, even if he has a hand he knows will not withstand a showdown.

Semi-Bluff

A semi bluff is almost the same as a bluff, but the only difference is the player who is trying to make this play actually has a hand that may improve through the flop, turn and river. Where a player on a bluff has no chance of winning the hand if it goes to a showdown, a player with a semi-bluff may have a chance to win.

Check-Raise

A check raise is a play that online poker players use when they have strong poker hands to extract the maximum amount of chips from their opponent. When it is their turn to act, they check, signifying weakness, their opponent bets, and they instantly raise.

Slow Play

A slow play is used when online poker players have strong poker hands, but want to disguise it. By just calling bets early and playing passive, they give the impression that they have a weak hand. As the hand progresses, they start to play more aggressively to extract more chips.

Stop and Go

A stop and go is a play used in online Texas Holdem to confuse your opponents. By making a strong bet, then checking at the next opportunity for action, poker players can disguise the strength of their poker hands and make it difficult for their opponents to read them.

It is important that you understand these online poker terms if you want to be successful playing online poker. While they are more common in Texas Hold’em, they also show up in other forms of poker online, like Omaha hi and crazy pineapple poker.