Cut Shot

Definition: A "cut shot" is a type of controlled golf shot in which a golfer induces a fade ball flight. For a right-handed golfer, that means the ball moves from left-to-right in flight; for left-handers, the ball moves from right-to-left.

A cut shot is usually played in order to get the ball around some obstruction in its flight path. For example, your drive lands on the right side of the fairway, where overhanging branches pose a problem. A cut shot will start the ball out to the left - going around the problem - before moving the ball back to the right.

Cut shots are frequently played on approaches to the green, as well, as a way of avoiding greenside hazards. For example, a right-handed player facing a green that is well-protected on the right but open on the left might to play a cut shot, bringing the ball into the green from left-to-right.

Cut shots are played either by opening the clubface at impact, or by swinging on an outside-to-inside swing path. A more severe cut shot might involve both maneuvers.

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Also Known As: Often used interchangeably with "fade," although some golfers argue they are slightly different - but just exactly how they are different depends on who you ask. Just know that both shots are controlled, left-to-right ball movements (for righties).