Lebensohl
Lebensohl is used when the opponents have overcalled 1NT.
A 2NT bid by responder is a relay to 3
. Most of the time responder usually has a weak, one-suited hand. The 1NT bidder must relay to 3, which responder can then pass with clubs or correct.
As a result, a direct new suit bid by responder at the THREE level is forcing.
1NT - (2) - 2NT! (2NT is a relay to 3). Responder's rebids after the 3 relay are:
- Pass: Weak hand with at least five clubs
- New suit BELOW the overcaller's suit: Weak, natural.
- New suit ABOVE the overcaller's suit: Invitational, natural.
- Cuebid of the enemy suit shows a stopper. A direct 3NT bid would deny a stopper.
| 1NT | 2 |
2NT | Pass |
| 3 |
Pass | 3 * |
* 3 is a sign-off bid showing at least five diamonds
| 1NT | 2 |
2NT | Pass |
| 3 |
Pass | 3 * |
*Since responder could have just bid 2 to show a weak hand, he is now inviting game in spades.
| 1NT | 2 |
2* |
* 2 is weak and natural
| 1NT | 2 |
3* |
* Responder has made a bid at the 3-level. This is natural and forcing.
| 1NT | 2 |
3* |
* 3 is Stayman, denying a heart guard.
| 1NT | 2 |
2NT | Pass |
| 3 |
Pass | 3* |
*3 is Stayman, showing a heart guard.
| 1NT | 2 |
2NT | Pass |
| 3 |
Pass | 3NT* |
* Natural, promises a stopper in the enemy suit. A direct 3NT bid would DENY a stopper in the enemy suit.
| 1NT | 2 |
2NT | Pass |
| 3 |
Pass | 3NT* |
*3NT shows a spade stopper.
| 1NT | 2 |
3NT* |
* 3NT denies a spade stopper.