Why is it called best out of x number of games?

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In summary, there are two main reasons why "best out of x number of games" is used instead of "first to x" in competitions. First, if draws or ties are possible, the two statements are not equivalent as fewer game wins may be needed to win the series. Second, in some series, all games are played regardless of the series winner being determined, which is known as a "dead rubber". Using "first to x" would imply that the series ends as soon as a winner is determined, as seen in tennis matches.
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TSN79
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In competitions where it's "best out of x number of games", why can't they instead just say "first to x"? If it's best out of 33 you need to do a litte math to understand that it's first to 17, so why can't they say that from the get-go instead?
 
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Your suggestion would be the best way to say it in many cases. There are some cases where it would not fit.

(1) If draws or ties are possible, then 'best of (2n-1)' is not the same as 'first to n' because fewer game wins will be needed to win the series. For instance, if it's a series of five and there are two draws then the side that wins at least two games wins the series.

(2) In some series, the full set of games is played even if a series winner has been determined before the beginning of the last game. Examples are Test Cricket series and State of Origin series (Rugby League. nobody outside Australia is likely to know what that is). The series is called a 'dead rubber' for the games played after the series result has been determined. Using the term 'first to x' implies that the series stops as soon as a winner has been determined, as happens for instance in tennis matches.
 

1. Why is it called "best out of x number of games"?

This term is used in sports and games where two teams or individuals compete against each other in multiple rounds. The winner is determined by winning the majority of the rounds, or being the first to win a specific number of games. The term "best" refers to the player or team that performs the best over the course of the entire series of games.

2. How is the "best out of x number of games" format different from other formats?

The "best out of x number of games" format is different from other formats, such as single elimination or round robin, because it allows for a more fair and accurate determination of the overall winner. It takes into account the performance of both teams or players over multiple games, rather than just one game.

3. Why is it important to have a "best out of x number of games" format in certain sports or games?

In certain sports or games, the outcome of a single game can be influenced by luck or chance. Having a "best out of x number of games" format ensures that the overall winner is determined by their consistent performance over multiple games, rather than just one game.

4. What factors are considered when determining the number of games in a "best out of x number of games" format?

The number of games in a "best out of x number of games" format is typically determined by the organizers or governing body of the sport or game. Factors such as time constraints, player safety, and fairness are taken into consideration when determining the appropriate number of games for a series.

5. Are there any drawbacks to using a "best out of x number of games" format?

One potential drawback of using a "best out of x number of games" format is that it can be more time-consuming and costly than other formats. It also may not be suitable for all sports or games, as some may require a different format for various reasons. Additionally, in some cases, the outcome of a series may already be determined before all of the games have been played, making the remaining games unnecessary.

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