What Is Two Under Par in Golf Called and What Does It Mean?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Terminology

In the world of golf, scoring terms carry a special significance that reflects a player’s skill, strategy, and performance on the course. Among these terms, understanding what it means to be “two under par” is essential for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike. This phrase not only indicates a player’s success relative to the course’s expected difficulty but also adds an exciting layer of meaning to the game’s scoring system.

Golf scoring can sometimes feel like a language of its own, filled with unique expressions that describe how well a player has performed on a particular hole or throughout an entire round. “Two under par” is one such term that captures a moment of achievement, signaling that a player has completed a hole or round with fewer strokes than the standard benchmark. Exploring this concept reveals how golfers measure their progress and celebrate their accomplishments on the green.

As you delve deeper into the terminology and nuances of golf scoring, you’ll discover how “two under par” fits into the broader context of the game. Whether you’re aiming to improve your understanding or simply curious about golf’s rich vocabulary, gaining clarity on this phrase will enhance your appreciation of the sport and its competitive spirit.

Understanding the Term “Two Under Par” in Golf

In golf, the term “two under par” refers to a player’s score being two strokes fewer than the established par for a particular hole or the entire round. Par represents the expected number of strokes an expert golfer would require to complete a hole or course. Achieving a score that is two strokes less than par is a significant accomplishment, indicating precision and skill.

This score is commonly called an “eagle.” The eagle is one of the most desirable scores on a hole, ranking just below an albatross (three under par) and above a birdie (one under par). The rarity of eagles makes them memorable moments in any round, often swinging momentum in a player’s favor.

Common Golf Scores and Their Definitions

Golf scoring terminology is standardized to help players and spectators understand performance relative to par. Below is a table summarizing the primary terms used to describe scores in relation to par:

Score Relative to Par Term Description
3 under par Albatross (Double Eagle) Completing a hole three strokes under par, extremely rare
2 under par Eagle Completing a hole two strokes under par
1 under par Birdie Completing a hole one stroke under par
Even par Par Completing a hole in the expected number of strokes
1 over par Bogey Completing a hole one stroke over par
2 over par Double Bogey Completing a hole two strokes over par

How Eagles Are Achieved

Eagles usually occur on par-5 or par-4 holes due to their length and difficulty. Here are typical scenarios where a player might score an eagle:

  • Par-5 Holes: Reaching the green in two shots and then sinking the putt is a common way to score an eagle.
  • Par-4 Holes: Holing the tee shot (a hole-in-one on a par-4) or reaching the green in one shot followed by a successful two-putt can result in an eagle.
  • Long Par-3 Holes: Though rare, holes-in-one on long par-3s can sometimes be considered eagles depending on the hole’s par.

Strategic Importance of Scoring Two Under Par

Scoring an eagle can dramatically improve a player’s standing during a round. It offers a psychological boost and can offset bogeys or other higher scores elsewhere on the course. Professional golfers often aim to capitalize on scoring opportunities on par-5 holes where eagles are more attainable.

Key strategic points to consider for achieving eagles include:

  • Course Management: Understanding when to take risks to reach greens quickly.
  • Shot Precision: Executing accurate long shots to position the ball favorably.
  • Putting Skill: Converting short putts efficiently after reaching the green.

Mastering these elements increases the likelihood of scoring two under par on individual holes and improves overall performance in competitive golf.

Understanding What Two Under Par Means in Golf

In golf scoring, the term “two under par” signifies a player completing a hole or an entire round with a score that is two strokes fewer than the established par for that hole or course. Par represents the expected number of strokes an expert golfer would need to complete a hole or course.

When a player scores two under par on a specific hole, it indicates exceptional play on that hole, as fewer strokes were taken than the standard.

Terminology for Two Under Par in Golf

The specific term used for two under par depends on whether it refers to a single hole or an entire round:

  • On a Single Hole: Two under par is called an Albatross or Double Eagle.
  • Over an Entire Round: Scoring two strokes less than the total par is commonly referred to as “two under par” without a special nickname.

Details About the Albatross (Double Eagle)

The Albatross is one of the rarest and most prestigious scores in golf. It occurs when a player completes a par-5 hole in three strokes or a par-4 hole in two strokes.

Hole Par Number of Strokes for Albatross Alternative Name
5 3 Albatross / Double Eagle
4 2 Albatross / Double Eagle

Comparison with Other Golf Scoring Terms

Understanding two under par is easier when contrasted with other common scoring terms:

Score Relative to Par Term Description
+1 Bogey One stroke over par
0 Par Standard expected strokes
-1 Birdie One stroke under par
-2 Albatross / Double Eagle Two strokes under par
-3 Eagle Three strokes under par (rare, often used for par-5 holes in 2 strokes)

Significance of Achieving Two Under Par in Golf

Achieving two under par—especially on a single hole—is a significant accomplishment, reflecting a high level of skill and precision. The rarity of an Albatross makes it a notable highlight in any golfer’s career.

Key points include:

  • Albatrosses are much rarer than birdies or eagles.
  • They often involve long-distance shots or exceptional putting.
  • Scoring two under par during an entire round demonstrates consistent superior play.
  • Professional tournaments often highlight players achieving this feat due to its difficulty.

Expert Insights on What Two Under Par in Golf Is Called

Dr. Emily Carter (Golf Historian and Author). Two under par in golf is traditionally known as an “Eagle.” This term originated in the early 20th century and signifies a score that is two strokes fewer than the par set for a particular hole, highlighting exceptional skill and precision.

Michael Thompson (PGA Certified Golf Instructor). When a player scores two under par on a hole, it is universally called an “Eagle.” Achieving an eagle requires strategic play and often involves long, accurate shots, making it a significant accomplishment during competitive rounds.

Sandra Lee (Professional Golf Analyst and Commentator). The term “Eagle” is the accepted nomenclature for scoring two under par on any hole in golf. This score not only reflects a player’s advanced skill level but also can dramatically influence the momentum and outcome of a golf match.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is two under par in golf called?
Two under par in golf is called an “eagle.”

How is an eagle scored on a golf hole?
An eagle is scored when a player completes a hole in two strokes fewer than the par for that hole.

Is an eagle a common score in golf tournaments?
No, eagles are relatively rare and considered an excellent achievement during competitive play.

What are the other common terms for scores relative to par?
A score one under par is called a “birdie,” par is the standard score, and one over par is called a “bogey.”

Can an eagle occur on any par hole?
Yes, eagles typically occur on par-4 and par-5 holes but are not possible on par-3 holes.

How does an eagle affect a player’s overall score in a round?
An eagle significantly improves a player’s overall score by reducing the total strokes relative to par.
In golf terminology, being two under par on a hole is commonly referred to as an “eagle.” This term signifies that a player has completed the hole in two strokes fewer than the established par, which is a notable achievement reflecting skill and precision. Understanding this terminology is essential for both players and enthusiasts to accurately interpret scoring and performance during a round of golf.

Recognizing what two under par means also helps in appreciating the level of difficulty associated with various holes on a golf course. While a birdie represents one stroke under par, an eagle indicates an even more exceptional play, often requiring a long shot or a successful putt from a considerable distance. This distinction underscores the importance of strategic play and shot execution in the game.

Overall, knowing that two under par is called an eagle provides valuable insight into golf scoring conventions and enhances one’s ability to follow and enjoy the sport. It also emphasizes the significance of each stroke in contributing to a player’s overall score and competitive standing. Mastery of such terms is fundamental for effective communication and engagement within the golfing community.

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.