Blackjack terms glossary
This glossary summarizes concepts commonly used in strategy charts, EV calculators, and real casino tables.
EV (Expected Value)
Average expected return of a decision. If two actions are possible, the one with the higher EV is usually preferred long term.
Push, bust and surrender
Push means tie, bust means going over 21, and surrender means giving up to lose only part of the bet when allowed.
H17, S17 y DAS
H17 means dealer hits soft 17, S17 means dealer stands. DAS means you can double after splitting a pair.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it important to master these terms?
Because each term describes a rule or situation that impacts EV and decisions. Understanding them avoids interpretation mistakes.
Does every casino use the same abbreviations?
Most share similar terminology, but you should always review table-specific rules before playing.