First Question
This deal occurred in a large online Open Pairs game in November 2022. You (4th seat, unfavorable) are on lead against a somewhat surprising three diamond contract.
We hate to pass with what might be the best hand at the table, but pass might well be the best of West’s flawed alternatives in this particular situation (unfavorable vulnerability, East passed in second seat, the opponents have the spades, it’s not likely that East will be on lead). Some Wests chose a flawed two diamond overcall (the main problem is that the suit quality is well below what partner should expect); others chose a flawed takeout double (the main problem is that partner is likely to bid clubs).
What’s your plan?