Quarter
What Does Quarter Mean in Poker?
In poker, particularly Omaha hi-lo, being ‘quartered’ means splitting half of the pot with another player, usually because both have the same low hand. The result is receiving only a quarter of the total pot.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term Quarter
You might hear or use the term ‘quarter’ during Omaha hi-lo games when discussing the outcomes of a hand where two players share the same low hand, resulting in each receiving a quarter of the pot.
In-Game Example:
You’re playing Omaha hi-lo and the board reads A 2 5 8 K. You and another player both have 3 4 for the low hand, while another player wins the high hand with a set of kings. You and the other player with the low hand are quartered, splitting half of the pot allocated for the low and receiving only a quarter of the total pot each.
Strategy / Tips:
- Best Practice: Focus on scooping both the high and low pots to avoid being quartered. Play hands that have potential for the nut high and nut low.
- Common Mistake: Relying too heavily on low hands without high potential can lead to frequent quartering.
- Pro Tips: Evaluate the likelihood of being quartered and adjust your betting strategy to minimize losses when quartering seems inevitable.
- Differences playing over the table vs online: Online, players may more frequently encounter quarter situations due to faster play and more hands per hour, requiring quick adjustments in strategy.
Alternative Names:
There are no widely recognized alternative names for ‘quarter’ in poker terminology.
FAQs:
- Q: Can you be quartered in games other than Omaha hi-lo?
A: While ‘quartered’ is primarily used in Omaha hi-lo, similar split pot scenarios can occur in other split-pot games, though they may not use the same terminology. - Q: How can I avoid being quartered?
A: Aim to play hands that can scoop both the high and low pots, and be cautious of betting too aggressively with vulnerable low hands.
