deuce
DYOO-ss
/djuːs/
A score of 40-40 in a tennis game, requiring one player to win two consecutive points to win the game.
Deuce represents a psychological deadlock where the momentum of the game can shift dramatically.
The story behind the word. 'Deuce' comes from the French 'deux,' meaning 'two.' This refers to the fact that two consecutive points are needed to win the game once the score reaches 40-40.
Word relationships
- tie: A tie is a general term; deuce is the specific term for 40-40 in tennis.
Commonly confused with
- advantage: Advantage is the point won after deuce; if that player wins the next point, they win the game.
Collocations
- back to deuce
- win from deuce
Example sentences
- "At deuce, the pressure is at its highest, as every mistake is magnified." Match tension
- "The game went to deuce five times before she finally managed to break her opponent's serve." Score update
Memory hook
'Deuce' sounds like 'Deux' (two in French)—you need two points to win. Two points to win.
When not to use
Do not use 'deuce' for a tie in other sports like soccer or basketball; use 'draw' or 'tie.'
Fun facts
- In the 18th century, 'deuce' was also a slang term for the devil or bad luck.
Related words
Explore more words
deadlock, stalemate, runoff, impasse, equilibrium, tournament
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