"-ev" stands for "expected value," a concept used in probability and statistics to determine the average outcome of a random event. It helps in assessing the potential benefits or losses associated with different choices, making it a valuable tool in decision-making processes. In gambling, for example, players often calculate the -ev of a bet to understand whether it is likely to be profitable in the long run. A positive expected value indicates a favorable bet, while a negative expected value suggests a potential loss over time.