golf - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
golf Word Meanings
- a game played on a course with 18 holes
- the sport of using clubs to hit a ball into a series of holes
- a recreational activity involving hitting a ball with a club.
golf Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
golf Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɡɒlf/
US
/ɡɑlf/
golf Word Etymology
golf = (? Origin unknown, possibly from Dutch 'kolf') → Old French → English. Imagine a serene landscape with a lush green course, where players concentrate on hitting a small ball into a hole with precision.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I stand with my feet steady, knees slightly bent, gripping the club. I shift my weight, the club head rising, then driving through as the ball lifts and sails toward the first hole. I adjust my stance, keep my eye on the ball, and feel the rhythm move from breath to wrists. Each swing turns a small effort into a steady, felt rhythm on the course.
Real Context
GOLF is a precision outdoor game played on a course with 18 holes, though many clubs offer 9-hole options. Players use a set of clubs to hit a small ball from the tee toward progressively distant holes on the fairways and greens. The objective is to complete each hole in as few strokes as possible, with the total score being the sum of strokes across all holes. The sport values calm concentration, course management, and etiquette, including rules about penalties, tee boxes, and where to stand relative to other players. Golf can be enjoyed as a social leisure activity or pursued competitively at various levels.
Usage Reminders
- Use 'a round of golf' for one game. Say 'play golf' as the activity, not 'go golf'. Mention the course or course layout when describing difficulty. Talk about 'par' and 'strokes' numbers clearly. Distinguish between 'golf club' (equipment) and 'golf course' (place). Remember golf is uncountable when talking generally. You can say 'golf is popular' but not 'a golf'.
Common Misconceptions
- Golf is only for rich people or celebrities.
- A 'round of golf' is a single hole, not the whole game.
- You can say 'a golf' to mean the sport.
- Bats or clubs are called 'bats' in golf.
- Golf and mini golf are exactly the same game.
Thinking Differences
For learners of English, golf blends a sport noun with specific countable phrases like 'a round of golf' and 'golfer' vs general activities; learners often default to plural or try to treat 'golf' like other sports. Emphasize fixed collocations and the uncountable nature when speaking generally.
Learning Tips
- Learn key collocations: round, course, club, putt, par.
- Practice saying 'a round of golf' vs. 'golf' in general.
- Listen for etiquette terms like 'stand still' and 'silence during shots'.
- Notice how articles are used with sports (no 'the golf').
- Use visuals or maps of a course to anchor terms.
- Record yourself saying golf phrases to check pronunciation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'golf'?
A.A kind of fruit native to tropical regions
B.A type of flower that blooms in spring
C.A form of dance popular in Latin America
D.A type of game played with clubs and a small ball
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'golf' typically used in a sentence?
A.He spent the weekend golfing with his friends.
B.She bought a bouquet of golf at the market.
C.The golf in the garden looked beautiful.
D.They danced the golf at the party.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a similar word to 'golf'?
A.Tennis
B.Badminton
C.Soccer
D.Cricket
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'golf'?
A.Basketball
B.Swimming
C.Bowling
D.Hiking
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you most likely encounter the word 'golf'?
A.In a bakery
B.In a hospital
C.In a movie theater
D.On a golf course
Related Listening
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