Bully
What Does Bully Mean in Poker?
In poker, a “bully” refers to a player who uses aggressive betting or raising tactics to intimidate opponents and force them to fold, often when the bully may not have a strong hand themselves.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Bully:
During a hand when a player is consistently applying pressure with large bets, especially in situations where their actual hand strength is questionable, you might hear them referred to as a bully.
In-Game Example:
You’re playing in a cash game, and a player at the table raises preflop, continues with a big bet on the flop, and then shoves on the turn, forcing multiple opponents to fold. This player is employing a bully strategy by leveraging aggression to win pots without showing down a hand.
Strategy / Tips:
- Best Practice: Employ bullying tactics when you have a read that your opponents are playing weak or are risk-averse. Use it to pick up small pots and build your stack.
- Common Mistake: Overusing this tactic can lead opponents to catch on and start calling you down with marginal hands, or they may start trapping you with strong hands.
- Pro Tips: Timing is keyuse bullying more in late stages of a tournament when blinds are high, or against tighter opponents who are unlikely to call without a strong hand.
- Differences playing over the table vs online: In live poker, physical presence and table talk can enhance bullying tactics, while online, you’ll rely more on bet sizing and timing tells.
Alternative Names:
Sometimes referred to as “playing the bully,” or “aggressive play.”
FAQs:
Q: How can I defend against a bully at the table?
A: To counter a bully, consider widening your calling range and be prepared to make strong plays when you have a read on their aggression patterns.
