Push Shot Meaning in Billiards

A push shot is a foul where the cue tip stays on the ball. This means the stick is still touching the ball as it moves. It looks like the player is shoving the ball instead of hitting it. This is illegal because a shot must be a single clean strike. It often happens when the balls are placed very close together. You must use a special angled hit to avoid pushing the ball. Most players try to strike the cue ball at a sharp side angle. This ensures the tip leaves the ball surface immediately after impact. For example, a player pushes the cue ball through a gap to reach a target. The referee calls a foul because the tip never lost contact. Keeping your stroke quick and snappy prevents this common rules violation. It ensures the game remains fair for all players involved.