4bet

In poker, a 4-bet is the action of making the fourth bet in the preflop betting sequence, occurring after an opening raise and a 3-bet. It is most common in no-limit games such as Texas Hold'em. The term describes the re-raise that follows a 3-bet, and its use is typically in heads-up pots or short-handed tables.

Example: Player A opens to a small amount, Player B makes a 3-bet, and Player C executes a 4-bet. The next player can call, fold, or 5-bet (re-raise again). A 4-bet often signals a strong hand, a polarized bluff, or a strategic attempt to define the pot and deny equity to drawing hands.

Sizing and ranges: 4-bet sizes vary with stack depth and table dynamics. They are generally larger than the previous raise, commonly around two to four times the size of the 3-bet, or adjusted to leave a comfortable stack-to-pot ratio. In deeper-stacked games, players may 4-bet larger to apply pressure or to induce folds from wide calling ranges. The 4-bet range is typically polarized, including very strong value hands (for example, premium pairs and strong Ace-x combos) and certain bluffs or semi-bluffs designed to pressure opponents who often continue with lighter hands.

Strategy and defense: A 4-bet can be used to isolate one opponent, build a big pot with strong holdings, or prevent multiway action. Facing a 4-bet, players choose among folding, calling, or 5-betting (all-in) depending on position, stack sizes, and the opponent’s tendencies. Multiway pots reduce the frequency and effectiveness of 4-bets, making depth and reads particularly important.

Overall, the 4-bet is a key lever in preflop strategy, balancing value protection, aggression, and pot control.