In poker, “aggressive” describes a playing style or a specific action characterized by making bets and raises, rather than checking or calling. An aggressive player takes the initiative, putting pressure on opponents to make decisions and often trying to build the pot or force folds. This style stands in contrast to passive play, where a player predominantly checks and calls.
Example
Imagine a No-Limit Hold’em cash game. Player A is dealt A♠ K♠ in early position and raises pre-flop. Player B, in middle position, has 9♣ 9♦ and decides to 3-bet (re-raise) instead of just calling. This is an aggressive move, putting pressure back on Player A and isolating the pot. The flop comes K♦ 7♥ 2♠. Player A checks. Player B, despite not improving their pair, makes a continuation bet. This is another aggressive action, attempting to represent strength and potentially fold out Player A’s hand, especially if Player A only has a weak King or a draw. Player B’s consistent betting and raising demonstrates an aggressive approach to the hand.
Strategy Tip
Aggression is a fundamental and often profitable strategy in poker, especially in No-Limit games. Use aggression to build large pots when you have a strong hand for value, maximizing your winnings. It’s also crucial for bluffing and semi-bluffing, as it allows you to win pots without having the best hand by forcing opponents to fold. Aggressive play can help you control the narrative of a hand, dictate the pot size, and gain valuable information about your opponents’ hand strength based on their reactions. It is particularly effective against tight or passive players who are prone to folding. However, balance is key; indiscriminate aggression can be exploited by observant opponents who will call your bluffs more often.