Feature Ask (2NT Response to Weak Two)

After partner opens a weak two-bid, a 2NT response asks about outside features, specifically, whether opener has an outside ace or king.

The Basic Structure

After partner opens 2♥ or 2♠:

Response Meaning

2NT Asking for a feature

Opener’s rebids after 2♥ – 2NT:

Rebid Meaning

3♣ Club feature (ace or king)

3♦ Diamond feature

3♥ No outside feature, minimum

3♠ Spade feature

3NT Solid suit (AKQxxx)

What’s a “Feature”?

A feature is an outside ace or king — something that helps with game prospects: – ♠A74 has a spade feature – ♠Q74 does not – ♦K3 has a diamond feature

Example

Partner opens 2♥. You hold: ♠AQ3 ♥K5 ♦AK84 ♣QJ74

You have 19 HCP. Game depends on whether partner has a useful card outside hearts.

Bid 2NT (feature ask).

If partner bids 3♦ (diamond feature): Bid 4♥ — that’s useful!
If partner bids 3♥ (no feature): Pass — game is unlikely

The 3NT Response

When opener bids 3NT, they’re showing a solid suit, AKQxxx or better. This means: – 6 tricks in their own hand – No outside entry needed – Responder can often pass 3NT

Feature vs Ogust

Both conventions ask about weak two quality:

Convention What It Asks

Feature Outside aces/kings

Ogust Suit quality AND hand strength

Some pairs use Feature over weak twos in majors and Ogust or other methods elsewhere. Discuss with partner!

When Responder Has Support

With support for opener’s major, 2NT still asks about features. Knowing whether partner has an outside entry helps you judge slam:

♠K4 ♥AQ74 ♦AK84 ♣A74

If partner opens 2♥, you might be able to make slam — but only if partner has a feature for entries.

Minimum Strength for 2NT

Don’t ask with nothing to say after the response. You need: – A game-invitational hand or better – An actual reason to need the information

Feature Ask