There are several terms that are unique to golf. These important words and phrases might be confusing for first-time players. Even if you have experience playing golf, familiarizing yourself with commonly-used terms avoids unnecessary confusion and game delays.

5 Words & Phrases Every Golfer Should Know

1. Par

Every hole, or cup, on a golf course comes with a number. Known as par, it is the maximum number of strokes a player should take to put the ball in the hole. If you complete the hole in fewer strokes, you are under par. If it takes additional strokes to finish, you’re over par. Most holes are par 4.

2. Rough

Courses feature a diversity of manipulated terrain. The fairway, for example, is the short-cut grass between where you tee off and the green, even shorter grass featuring the flag and cup. The rough surrounds the fairway and features longer and thicker grass. If your ball lands in the rough, hitting it properly will be more challenging.

3. Bogey & Double Bogey

A bogey refers to finishing the hole one stroke above par, such as in five shots instead of four if you’re on a par 4. Two or three shots above par is a double or triple bogey, respectively.

4. Mulligan

Poor shots can happen to the best players. You can hit your ball into water hazards, out-of-bounds areas, and sand traps. In these cases, your fellow players may give you a mulligan, or courtesy shot. Mulligans are typically only allowed in amateur play because they are not part of the official game rulebook.

5. Up & Down

Hitting the ball to an undesirable location doesn’t mean you can’t make par. A ball that lands in the rough, for example, provides the opportunity to pitch or chip it onto the green and make your next shot into the hole. If you hit the ball out of the rough and putt it into the hole on the following shot for a par, it’s considered a successful “up and down.” 

Work on your golf game at Corey Creek Golf Club in Mansfield, PA. The 71-par course has attracted golfers throughout Lake and Canyon Counties since 1927. The state-of-the-art course also features a beautiful clubhouse with an exclusive menu and full-service bar. Call (570) 662-3520 today to schedule a tee time or visit the course online to see their rates.