When does a discard count as thrown?
By Jerry Chen. Checked and updated November 1, 2026
Short answer: touched or named
The moment it touches the table or you say its name, whichever comes first. From then on it can be called and you cannot take it back.
The detail
This is what players mean by "down is dead": a discard that is down is dead to the person who threw it.
The calling window opens at the same moment.
Sources
These follow standard National Mah Jongg League rules. House rules vary; agree on them before you play.
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