ickeslående

Ickeslående is a term found in Swedish discussions of trick-taking card games. It describes a deliberate choice by a player not to lead when a lead is possible, instead waiting for others to play or following a partner's lead.

Etymology and concept: the word is a compound of icke- meaning “not” and slående from the verb slå, historically used for “to strike” or “to win a trick” in card play. In practice, ickeslående characterizes passive or defensive play aimed at avoiding giving away information through an early lead or at testing opponents’ positions before committing high cards.

Usage and interpretation: the term is more common in informal critique than in formal rulebooks, and its exact meaning can vary by game and region. In partnership games such as bridge, a player might be described as ickeslående when their hand contains strength better exercised by a later lead; delaying the lead can keep options open and reduce predictability for opponents.

Relationship and limitations: ickeslående is related to defensive play, passive strategy, or waiting plays; it is not a standardized concept and sources may spell it differently, for example as icke-slående. See also leading, defensive play, and trick-taking games for related ideas.