What does it mean in poker to "check-raise"?

[ProGambler]

A "check-raise" in poker refers to a decision made by a player to first check (pass the action) rather than bet, with the goal of raising later if another player bets. This can be a strong and misleading move since it enables the player to get other players to bet before trapping them with a bigger raise.

A player usually needs a solid hand or a strong draw that they think will improve on the subsequent round of betting in order to make a check-raise. The check-raise can also be employed as a bluff to conceal a weak hand and portray a good one.

Consider a player in Texas Hold'em who receives pocket aces (two aces as their hole card).

 

[CR7]

In this scenario, the player might decide to employ a check-raise strategy. They may want to give the impression to other players that they have a weak hand by checking, with the goal of inducing someone with a good hand to bet. If another player makes a bet, the player with pocket aces can then raise, putting pressure on their opponents to either fold or call a larger bet.

Another time when a player may implement a check-raise is if they receive a good draw like a straight or a flush draw. If there are two community cards of the same suit on the flop, a player could check and plan to raise if a third card of that suit appears on the turn. In this way, the player can increase the pot size while still having some outs to improve their hand.

It's important to use check-raising selectively as it can be a riskier strategy than a straightforward bet or raise. If overused, other players may catch on and start folding more often to a check-raise. However, when implemented correctly, a check-raise can be a valuable tool in a player's poker arsenal.

 

[Omelaa]

In poker, a check-raise is a strategic move where a player initially checks when it's their turn to act, hoping that an opponent will bet. After the opponent bets, the player then raises the bet during the same betting round. It's a tactic used to trap opponents and build the pot when you have a strong hand.

 

[emmanuel1]

a check-raise is when you first act like you're not interested, hoping someone bets. Once they do you then raise, surprising them. Its a way to make opponents think you are weak and get more money into the pot when you actually have a good hand.

 

[Lazza]

The check-raise is a bluff as well as a hand gesture that is frequently connected to strong hands. If you check-raise with a weaker hand, you can persuade the other players to fold stronger hands.