The Unusual 2NT is used after opponent has opened one of a suit. A 2NT overcall shows at least five cards in each of the lowest unbid suits; partner is expected to bid the one he likes best. Some quick examples:

1 2NT

2NT shows the lowest two unbid suits, diamonds and hearts.

1 2NT

2NT shows clubs and hearts.

1 2NT

2NT shows clubs and diamonds.

1 2NT

2NT shows clubs and diamonds.

In each of these cases, the partner of the 2NT bidder normally corrects to the suit he has the most tolerance for. With equal length in both suits, especially with two doubletons, he bids the cheapest suit. If he has a weak hand with at least four-card support, he can consider making a preemptive jump bid, like this:

1 2NT Pass 4

4 is preemptive, promising at least four clubs.

With a good hand, partner can cue bid the opponents' suit. This is forcing for one round and asks the 2NT bidder to bid his cheapest suit at the cheapest level with a weak hand (around 0-10 points), or to make any other bid with a fair hand (around 10+ points). If by chance partner bids the fourth suit, i.e. the suit not bid by the opponents or shown by partner, that bid is natural and nonforcing, showing a very good suit (usually 6+ cards), a decent hand, and no support for either of the 2NT bidder's suits.

Rebids by the 2NT bidder

All raises are natural and non-forcing. All other bids show a very good hand (in terms of points and/or shape) but, with the exception of a cue-bid, are nonforcing.

Additional Unusual Auctions

The Unusual 2NT can also be used after both opponents have bid, as in these situations:

1 Pass 1 2NT

1 Pass 2H 2NT

1 Pass 1NT 2NT

The Unusual 2NT convention is useful because it gives up the strong 20-21 point natural 2NT overcall, which practically never occurs, in exchange for preempting the opponents and paving the way for a possible good sacrifice.