strategy riichi
Dama
ダマ
(だま)
Definition
Short for damaten. Staying silent in tenpai without declaring riichi, keeping your hand closed and concealed while waiting to win.
Related Terms
Damaten
黙聴
Silent tenpai. Being in tenpai but not declaring riichi, keeping your wait pattern secret from opponents. Strategic when you want flexibility or when riichi isn't advantageous.
Riichi
立直
Declaring ready - a 1-han yaku and core mechanic of Japanese mahjong. Declared when in tenpai with a closed hand by paying 1,000 points and placing a stick. Locks your hand but enables additional yaku.
Tenpai
聴牌
Ready to win - your hand is one tile away from completing a winning hand. Required to declare riichi.