What Does Limp Mean in Poker?
Limping in poker refers to the action of just calling the minimum bet in the first round of betting, instead of raising or folding. It is often considered a passive play and can be a sign of a weak hand or a strategy to see the flop cheaply. For those interested in playing, you can play poker online.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Limp
Limping is often mentioned in the early stages of a hand, particularly in casual home games or low-stakes online games. Players might say “I’ll just limp in” when they decide not to raise preflop.
In-Game Example
In a $1/$2 cash game, you’re in the small blind with 67. The player under the gun limps, and you decide to limp as well, hoping to see a cheap flop.
Strategy / Tips
Best Practice: Limp in multi-way pots when you have speculative hands that can flop big, like suited connectors or small pairs.
Common Mistake: Limping with premium hands, which misses the opportunity to build the pot and protect your hand.
Pro Tips: Consider limping in aggressive games where opponents frequently raise, allowing you to re-raise with a wider range. Adjust your strategy differently when playing live vs online as online games tend to be more aggressive.
Alternative Names
“Flat call” is sometimes used interchangeably with limp, although it more commonly refers to just calling a bet rather than raising.
FAQs
Q: Is limping always a weak play?
A: Not necessarily. While often seen as passive, strategic limping can be effective in the right context, such as trapping aggressive players or in multi-way pots.
Q: Should I limp in tournaments?
A: Limping in tournaments can be risky due to escalating blinds and aggressive opponents. It’s typically better to raise or fold.
