Reading and deducing from opponents' bids

Every opposing bid is an information leak. Learning to read it helps you decide better whether to coinche, raise or defend.

What an opening tells you

When an opponent opens in a suit, they signal strength: often trumps and at least one honour there. The higher their bid, the more solid their hand should be. This tells you where they expect to win tricks, so where your team will struggle.

Support, raises and passes

• A raise by their partner confirms the opposing pair has cards in that suit.
• A sharp jump betrays a strong hand and ambition.
• A pass suggests a weak hand, or no usable suit.

Deduce without over-reading

These signals are clues, not certainties. An opponent may bluff or hold an unusual hand. Cross several bids (who spoke, who supported, who passed) rather than trusting one alone. And remember your own bids inform them too: reading works both ways. Reading the table well means staying nuanced.

See also

FAQ

What does an opponent's opening tell me?

That they have strength in the bid suit, often trumps and an honour. The higher the bid, the more solid their hand should be. It tells you where they plan to win tricks.

Can you fully trust opponents' bids?

No. They're valuable clues, but an opponent may bluff or hold an unusual hand. Cross several bids and stay cautious in your deductions.