What is the Definition of a "Side Bet"?

Q: What is a "Side Bet"?

A: Side bets can be made on practically any topic or outcome.

A "side bet" is a secondary wager that is made separately from a primary outcome.

The meaning of Side Bet term is explained when it comes to the game of poker.  Example and illustration.For instance - let's say that you pay $10,000 to play in the World Series of Poker main event.

The "primary outcome" in this case is the result of the tournament - if you win, you'll walk away with millions of dollars.

A "side bet" might involve you and your friend making a bet to see who will last longer in the tournament. That is a
"side bet", as it is secondary to the primary outcome of the event.

Let's say that you are playing in a pick-up basketball game at your local gym.

The primary outcome of this game will be seeing which of the two teams ends up winning the game.

You and your friend, however, have a separate bet to see who will score the most points over the course of the game, with the winner walking away with $100. This is a "side bet".


Gamblers love side betting.

For instance, in any poker tournament there will likely be plenty of side bets as to who will win, who will last longer, etc.

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