Cut Meaning in Billiards

A cut shot describes hitting an object ball at an angle to drive it toward a pocket. Instead of a direct full hit you strike the side of the ball to create a turn. The degree of the cut determines how sharply the target ball will change its original direction. For example, a player executes a thin cut to sink a ball sitting along the side rail. This requires you to visualize the ghost ball position to find the correct contact point for aim. The more you cut a ball the more speed the cue ball will retain after the hit. You must also account for throw which is the slight deviation caused by friction between balls. Mastering various cut shots is the foundation of becoming a skilled and dangerous offensive billiard player. It allows you to pocket balls from almost any position on the green table surface. Practice your alignment and follow-through to ensure your cut shots are consistent and very accurate. It is the most common type of shot you will face in any game of pool. Every great run begins with a solid cut.