The take-out double
A take-out double is an asking bid: instead of proposing to defend, it asks partner to choose a suit.
When it is used
When an opponent opens, double with opening values (12 or more points), shortage in opener’s suit (usually 0, 1 or 2 cards) and support for the other three suits. The message: “I don’t have their suit, so I want one of the other three.”
If your strength is in opener’s suit instead, such as five cards including the ace and queen, pass and wait. Partner must answer the double, even with no points, unless the next player bids over it.
An example
An opponent opens 1♦. You hold this hand.
- ♠ A J 9 7
- ♥ K Q 8 3
- ♦ 6
- ♣ A 10 7 3
Double: 14 points, a singleton diamond and four cards in each of the other suits. The textbook take-out double; partner picks the suit.
Where we teach it
Taught in the Beginner course, in the Intervening Bids topic, the same way in both systems, ACOL and 5‑card majors. Improver returns to it in Competing for the Contract.
Learn it properly
Bridge Unlocked teaches the game step by step, with real hands to play. Bridge Basics is free.