There is no more important convention in bridge. A negative double is made by East in this auction:
West | North | East | South |
---|---|---|---|
1 of a suit | Any Suit Overcall | Double |
Only the partner of the opening bidder can make a Negative Double.
What does it show? Enough to respond (the higher the level, the more the requirements). On the 1-level, it can be made with as few of 6 points. There is no upper limit. A negative double can be made with 20 or more points!
It shows the "other suits" with the focus on the other major. There are 2 specific auctions where the Negative Double comes with guarantees:
West | North | East | South |
---|---|---|---|
1![]() |
1![]() |
Double |
This Negative Double guarantees both majors (at least 4 and at least 4
).
West | North | East | South |
---|---|---|---|
1![]() ![]() |
1![]() |
Double |
This Negative Double (after a 1 overcall) guarantees exactly 4
(not 3, not 5). A 1
bid would guarantee 5 or more spades.
At a higher level, you might make a negative double with less perfect shape but no clear bid.
West | North | East | South |
---|---|---|---|
1![]() ![]() |
3![]() |
Double |
This auction guarantees at least 10+ points, but not necessarily 4 spades.
You might also consider getting Larry's book on Doubles and Redoubles HERE or try Michael's Doubles Webinar which you can find HERE.
You are responder after your partner has dealt and opened 1. What is your call after RHO overcalls 1
?
AQ76
K32
32
J765
Pass
Double
1
Club Raise
You are responder after your partner has dealt and opened 1. What is your call after RHO overcalls 1
?
AQ76
K32
32
J765
Pass
Double
1
1NT
Other
You are responder after your partner has dealt and opened 1. What is your call after RHO overcalls 1
?
AQJ1076
8732
A
A5
Pass
Double
1
2
You are responder after your partner has dealt and opened 1. What is your call after RHO overcalls 3
?
AQ76
K32
32
A765
Pass
Double
3
3NT
Club raise
You are responder after your partner has dealt and opened 1. What is your call after RHO overcalls 1
?
63
A
QJ976
J7652
Pass
Double
2
2
You are responder after your partner has dealt and opened 1. What is your call after RHO overcalls 3
?
KQ5
98
AQ104
Q987
Pass
Double
3NT
4
5
You are responder after your partner has dealt and opened 1. What is your call after RHO overcalls 2
?
AJ43
K5
J10752
98
Pass
Double
2
3