The term "action" in poker refers to the player's turn to make a decision in the game. When it's a player's turn to act, we say that "the action is on them." The decisions they can then make include calling, raising, checking, betting, or folding.

Background

In poker, the action moves in a clockwise direction, with the action following this movement. Each player, when their turn comes, must decide what to do based on the state of the game, their hand, and their strategy. This then changes the state of the game and influences the decisions of the other players.

Action and Betting Rounds

In every betting round, from the pre-flop stage to the river, each player will have a turn or action. The player to the left of the dealer usually starts and it continues in a clockwise direction until all players have had their turn or "acted" in the hand. If a player makes a bet or a raise, the action will continue until it reaches the player who made the last raise.

Example of Action in Poker

For example, in a game of Texas Hold'em with 5 players, let's say you're the third player. The first player folds, the second player bets $10. Now the action is on you. You can decide to call the $10, raise the bet, or fold.

In another example, if you have a strong hand, you might decide to raise when the action comes to you in an attempt to force the other players to fold.

Examples of using the term 'action' in a sentence:

• "The action is on you, what's your decision?"
• "When the action came to me, I decided to raise."
• "I was waiting for the action to come around to see what the other players would do."

What does it mean when the action is on a player in poker?

It means it's their turn to make a decision in the game. They can choose to call, raise, check, bet, or fold.

Can a player act out of turn in poker?

No, players must wait for the "action" to come to them before making a decision.

What happens if a player acts before their action in poker?

If a player acts before their turn, it's called acting out of turn and it's generally considered poor etiquette. It can also give away information about their hand to the other players. Players who act out of turn are usually given a warning, with penalties given to repeat offenders.

How does the action move in poker?

The action moves in a clockwise direction, with each player getting their turn to act.

What does it mean when a poker player says "Your action"?

It means it's your turn to make a decision in the game.