Break Meaning in Billiards

The break is the first shot that starts a game. A player strikes the cue ball into a tight group of balls. This group sits in a triangle shape. The goal is to spread the balls across the table. A strong break creates open shots. It also can pocket balls immediately. For example, a player smashes the rack and sinks two balls. That player continues shooting if the break is legal. A powerful break often gives an early advantage.