When playing poker, it’s important to understand the terminology and the different hand rankings. One of the common phrases you might hear is “two pair” or “two pairs.”
But which one is correct The answer might surprise you.
First, let’s define what two pair means in poker. Two pair is a hand that contains two cards of the same rank, plus two more cards of a different rank that match each other. For example, if you have a hand that contains a pair of kings and a pair of fours, you have two pair.
Now, let’s look at the phrase “two pairs.” It’s easy to assume that this means the same thing as “two pair,” but it’s actually incorrect.
In poker terminology, “two pairs” refers to having two different pairs in your hand. For example, if you have a hand that contains a pair of jacks and a pair of sixes, you have two pairs (not two pair).
So why do people often say “two pairs” instead of “two pair” It could be due to regional differences or simply a misunderstanding of the correct terminology. However, it’s important to use the correct terminology when playing poker to avoid confusion and ensure fair play.
If you’re new to poker or still learning the terminology, here are some other common phrases and hand rankings:
- High card – If no players have any matching cards or pairs, then the highest card in your hand determines your rank.
- One pair – A hand with one set of matching cards.
- Three of a kind – A hand with three matching cards.
- Straight – A hand with five sequential cards (e.g. 2,3,4,5,6).
- Flush – A hand with five cards of the same suit.
- Full house – A hand with three matching cards and a pair.
- Four of a kind – A hand with four matching cards.
- Straight flush – A hand with five sequential cards of the same suit.
Knowing these terms and hand rankings is crucial to playing poker effectively. And now that you know the difference between “two pair” and “two pairs,” you can confidently use the correct terminology at the table.
