Bridge

Jacoby Transfer

Show a 5+ card major over partner's NT opening; opener becomes the declarer.

sequence

1NT — 2♦ (→ 2♥) or 2♥ (→ 2♠)

how it works

Over partner's 1NT opening, a 2♦ response is a 'transfer to hearts' — responder promises 5+ hearts and opener is required to bid 2♥. A 2♥ response is a 'transfer to spades' — opener is required to bid 2♠. Transfers accomplish two things: responder shows the suit without committing to a level, and the stronger hand (opener's 15-17) stays hidden from the opening leader when playing in the major fit.

used in 4 places

2♦2♦ (Jacoby transfer to hearts)
after 1N — P
2♥2♥ (Jacoby transfer to spades)
after 1N — P
3♦3♦ (Jacoby transfer to hearts)
after 2N — P
3♥3♥ (Jacoby transfer to spades)
after 2N — P