A 2 ♣ opening is forcing to game unless opener rebids 2NT showing a balanced 23-24 points when responder can pass or make a weak takeout at the three level according to your system.

So with an unbalanced hand you can develop the auction naturally, confident that responder cannot pass.

Opening bids of 2 ♦ 2 ♥ and 2 ♠ are according to the requirements as described in Requirements for Strong two openings.
Most people play this as forcing for one round but some prefer it to be not forcing at all. The latter makes opening 2 of something with nearly or actually 9 tricks a bit risky. I prefer " forcing for one round" as it gives more scope for opener,
Remember Opener might have 9 tricks and even your three little ones in the suit might provide the tenth if you have a shortage elshere.

It follows, obviously, that a positive bid made by Responder is forcing to game so how does responder make a negative bid and indeed what is needed to make a positive one?
Negatives are usually shown by either bidding 2NT or the suit above the one opened by the strong hand- I prefer the latter leaving 2NT avaiable to show some values in points but no clear cut tricks. A positive response is generally taken to mean at least a trick and a half- Ace and a King, KQ, K etc.With at least three small in openers suit and a trick and half or better bid 3 of that suit immediately. This should be recognised as the strongest response you can make.
Another useful agreement to have is that a direct bid to game- Partner opens 2 spades and you bid 4 Spades should absolutely deny an Ace simply suggesting that you have support and a few scattered points. This will make sure opener doesn't go looking if missing two Aces.

Main Index