Poker Glossary
Poker glossary

Exposed Pair

An exposed pair is a pair that can be seen, as opposed to a split pair or a hidden pair.

The simple explanation

An exposed pair in stud is a pair made of cards that are face up for all to see. A hidden pair has both cards in the hole, and a split pair has one up and one down.

A closer look

Exposed pairs give opponents information, so the player cannot bluff about having a pair. The advantage is that it shows strength and may make opponents fold. Players sometimes prefer hidden pairs, because they can surprise opponents.

A practical example

A stud player shows two sevens face up. Everyone can see his exposed pair.

Full explanation

An exposed pair is a pair that can be seen, as opposed to a split pair or a hidden pair.

An exposed pair is a pair whose cards are face up. The opposite is a hidden pair, with both cards in the hole, and a split pair, with one card up and one down.

In stud games, visible cards matter for strategy. Opponents see an exposed pair and can adjust their play.

A hidden pair is easier to disguise.

The term is used mainly for seven-card stud and five-card stud.

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