The singleton trump (atout sec)

An atout sec (singleton trump) is when you hold only one trump. A tricky spot — but not a losing one.

Definition

A card is “sec” (bare) when it's alone in its category. A singleton trump is therefore a lone trump in hand: once you play it, you have none left. A bare ace on the side is an ace with no other card of that suit.

How to play it

There's no absolute rule. If your singleton trump is a master (jack, nine), use it to ruff or seize the lead at the right moment. If it's weak, dropping it on an opponent's trump lead often discards it painlessly. It all depends on the contract, your seat and your partner's bid — a good player adapts rather than applying one recipe.

See also

FAQ

What is a singleton trump?

It's holding only one trump in hand. As soon as you play it, you're left with no trumps.

Should you play your singleton trump right away?

No single rule: a master singleton trump can ruff at the right moment, a weak one is often discarded on a trump lead. It depends on the situation.