Rules about discussing one's hand at the table.

[Grisgra]

A recent thread in another forum reminded me of my ignorance on the topic . . .

My understanding is that it's illegal to say what your hand is at the table. For the life of me, I have no idea why this rule is in existence. Mostly because nobody has any idea whether you're telling the truth or not. I can see, if after you muck, it being iffy to say what your cards were, but if you're IN the HAND, what's wrong with saying you've got AK or 63s or whatnot, if someone is trying to decide whether to call?

Similarly, how strict is the rule? If I make a big bet and someone is pondering about calling, can I say "I've got the nuts" or "I've got bottom pair no kicker" or whatnot? Is it only forbidden to say *exactly* what your hand is? Or is any mention of what you have ("I have a pocket pair") forbidden?

Inquiring and annoyed minds want to know.

[nuclear500]

Exact holdings are pretty much the standard I believe.
Real question is:
If its down to heads-up and you're faced with an all in in front of me and you do have a good hand, can you say it aloud. What can anyone do? He's already committed everything, no one else is in the pot and your decision alone.

[Grisgra]

But can I say "I have the nuts" when there are only two cards that would give me the nuts?

And what the hell is the reason for this rule, anyway? That's what I'm really curious about . . .