Matched Betting Terminology

When diving into the world of matched betting, understanding the jargon is crucial for success. The language used in matched betting can seem confusing or like completely made up nonsense, especially for beginners. 

To save you the trouble and effort of a million Google searches, I’ve listed the most common matched betting terminology below… You’re welcome!

Let’s get into it…

The most common matched betting terminology

1. Matched Betting Terminology: Back Bet

A back bet is a traditional bet placed on a particular outcome to win. For instance, betting on Team A to win a football match. In matched betting, a back bet is the initial wager placed to qualify for a bookmaker’s offer.

2. Matched Betting Terminology: Lay Bet

A lay bet is a bet against a particular outcome. In matched betting, you place a lay bet on a betting exchange to offset the risk of your back bet. It essentially acts as the “bookmaker” side of the bet.

So that’s the official term for a lay bet, and I bet you still have no idea what it is 😂

3. Matched Betting Terminology: Betting Exchange

A betting exchange is an online platform that enables users to bet against each other. It allows you to act as a bookmaker by offering odds on specific outcomes. Popular betting exchanges include Betfair, Smarkets, and Betdaq.

4. Matched Betting Terminology: Qualifying Bet

A qualifying bet is the initial bet you place to qualify for a bookmaker’s offer, such as a free bet or bonus. The aim is to trigger the promotion by meeting the required criteria set by the bookmaker.

5. Matched Betting Terminology: Free Bet

A free bet is a promotional offer provided by bookmakers. Once you meet the qualifying criteria, the bookmaker will reward you with a free bet, allowing you to place a wager without using your own funds. Any winnings from a free bet are usually subject to specific terms and conditions.

We use these free bets to increase our profits! I made £150,000 so far – check out my story.

6. Matched Betting Terminology: Stake

The stake refers to the amount of money you wager on a particular bet. It can be the amount you put at risk for a back bet or the amount you need to lay on a betting exchange to offset the risk.

7. Matched Betting Terminology: Odds

Odds represent the probability of a specific outcome occurring. They determine the potential returns you can expect from a winning bet. Odds can be displayed in different formats, such as decimal, fractional, or American.

8. Matched Betting Terminology: Arb or Arbitrage

Arbitrage, often referred to as an “arb,” is a situation where you can place bets on all possible outcomes of an event and guarantee a profit, regardless of the outcome. Matched betting is a form of arbitrage betting.

9. Matched Betting Terminology: Rollover

Rollover refers to the requirement imposed by bookmakers for you to wager your deposit and bonus funds a certain number of times before you can withdraw any winnings. It is important to be aware of the rollover conditions associated with a particular offer.

10. Matched Betting Terminology: Gubbing

Gubbing refers to when a bookmaker restricts or limits your account due to suspected or confirmed matched betting activity. Restrictions can include stake limitations, suspension of promotions, or account closure.

Want to learn more about this and how to prevent it from happening? Learn more here.

Those are the top terms you will need to start familiarising yourself with. Not only will it give you a more comprehensive understanding of matched betting, but it’ll make you sound like an absolute pro, to those around you!

If you have any questions or just want to chat with me, feel free to drop me a message on Instagram or Twitter.

don’t forget:

Always read & understand the terms and conditions of bookmaker offers and approach matched betting responsibly to ensure a successful and rewarding experience.