Is It Stand or Stay in Blackjack?

When it comes to playing blackjack, one of the most crucial decisions a player has to make is whether to “stand” or “stay”. While these terms may sound similar, they have different meanings in the context of blackjack. In this article, we’ll explore what each term means and provide tips on when to use them.

What Does “Stand” Mean in Blackjack

In blackjack, “stand” means that a player decides not to take any more cards from the dealer and is content with the current hand. When a player stands, they signal this by waving their hand over their cards or saying “stand”. Once a player has stood, they cannot take any more cards for that hand.

What Does “Stay” Mean in Blackjack

“Stay” is not actually a term used in blackjack. It’s possible that some players might use it interchangeably with “stand”, but it’s not an official term and could cause confusion at the table.

When Should You Stand in Blackjack

The decision to stand or hit depends on the value of your hand and the dealer’s upcard. If you have a hand valued at 17 or higher, it’s usually best to stand.

This is because there’s a high chance of busting if you take another card. If your hand value is between 12-16, you should also consider standing if the dealer’s upcard is low (2-6). This is because there’s a high chance that the dealer will bust if they have a weak upcard.

On the other hand, if your hand value is less than 12, you should always hit to improve your chances of getting closer to 21 without going over. If your hand value is between 12-16 and the dealer’s upcard is high (7-Ace), it’s best to hit to try and improve your hand value.

Conclusion

Knowing when to stand or hit in blackjack can make a big difference in your chances of winning. Remember that standing means you’re content with your current hand, while hitting means you want to take another card. By following these tips, you’ll be able to make more informed decisions at the blackjack table and increase your chances of coming out on top.

• Tip: It’s always advisable to practice playing blackjack online or with friends before playing for real money in a casino.
• Tip: While it’s important to know when to stand or hit, don’t forget about other important strategies like splitting and doubling down.