Quick Answer:
In golf, a bogey means scoring one stroke over par on a hole. For example, if a hole is par 4 and you take 5 strokes to finish it, that score is called a bogey.
Golf has its own language, and for beginners, terms like birdie, eagle, par, and bogey can feel confusing. One of the most common scoring terms players hear on the course is bogey. Understanding what bogey means in golf is important because it directly affects your score and overall performance.
This complete guide explains what bogey means in golf, its origin, how scoring works, examples, comparisons with other golf terms, scoring strategy, FAQs with answers, and everything beginners and casual players need to know.
Understanding the Meaning of Bogey in Golf
In simple terms, a bogey happens when a golfer completes a hole in one stroke more than the designated par.
Par is the expected number of strokes a skilled golfer should take to complete a hole. Every hole on a golf course has a par rating, usually par 3, par 4, or par 5.
Here is how bogey works:
- Par 3 hole completed in 4 strokes = Bogey
- Par 4 hole completed in 5 strokes = Bogey
- Par 5 hole completed in 6 strokes = Bogey
Bogey is very common, especially among beginner and intermediate golfers. It is not considered a great score, but it is also not disastrous.
Origin of the Word Bogey in Golf
The term bogey has an interesting history.
In the late 1800s in Britain, golfers referred to a fictional character called the “Bogey Man,” who represented the standard score players tried to beat. Over time, the term bogey became associated with the expected score for a hole.
Eventually, as the term par was standardized, bogey shifted to mean one stroke over par.
Today, bogey is universally used in golf scoring worldwide.
How Bogey Fits Into Golf Scoring
Golf scoring revolves around par. A player’s score is measured against par for each hole and the entire course.
Here is how bogey compares to other common golf scores:
| Score Term | Meaning | Example on Par 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Eagle | Two strokes under par | 2 strokes |
| Birdie | One stroke under par | 3 strokes |
| Par | Equal to par | 4 strokes |
| Bogey | One stroke over par | 5 strokes |
| Double Bogey | Two strokes over par | 6 strokes |
| Triple Bogey | Three strokes over par | 7 strokes |
Bogey sits just slightly above par and is considered manageable in most casual games.
Is a Bogey Good or Bad in Golf
Whether a bogey is good or bad depends on skill level.
For professional golfers, a bogey is usually disappointing. Professionals aim for birdies and pars.
For amateur golfers, especially beginners, a bogey can actually be a solid result. Many recreational players aim for “bogey golf,” meaning they average one stroke over par on each hole.
Bogey golf on an 18 hole course typically results in a score of 90 on a par 72 course, which is considered respectable for non professionals.
Examples of Bogey in Real Gameplay
Example one
A golfer plays a par 4 hole and reaches the green in three shots, then takes two putts. Total strokes equal five. That is a bogey.
Tone
Neutral and common
Example two
A player struggles in a bunker but finishes the hole one stroke over par. The result is still a bogey.
Tone
Recoverable mistake
Example three
A beginner aims to play consistent bogey golf to improve overall performance.
Tone
Strategic and practical
Types of Bogey Scores
Bogey can extend beyond just one over par.
- Bogey = 1 over par
- Double bogey = 2 over par
- Triple bogey = 3 over par
Higher bogeys indicate more strokes above par and usually reflect bigger mistakes.
Strategy Tips to Avoid Bogey
While bogey is common, golfers try to reduce them.
Tips to avoid bogey include:
- Focus on accurate tee shots
- Improve short game and putting
- Avoid risky shots
- Manage course strategy wisely
Many golfers focus on minimizing double and triple bogeys rather than chasing birdies.
Bogey vs Par vs Birdie
Understanding bogey is easier when compared with similar scoring terms.
Par represents the standard target score.
Birdie represents scoring below par.
Bogey represents scoring above par.
Bogey is part of normal scoring and happens regularly even for skilled players.
Alternate Meanings of Bogey
Outside of golf, bogey can mean:
- A radar target in aviation
- A suspicious aircraft
- A fictional scary figure in old folklore
However, in golf, bogey always refers to scoring one stroke over par.
FAQs
- What does bogey mean in golf?
Bogey means scoring one stroke over par on a hole. - Is a bogey good in golf?
For beginners, bogey is a solid score. For professionals, it is usually disappointing. - What is double bogey in golf?
Double bogey means scoring two strokes over par on a hole. - What is triple bogey?
Triple bogey means three strokes over par. - How many strokes is a bogey on a par 5?
On a par 5 hole, a bogey equals 6 strokes. - What is bogey golf?
Bogey golf means averaging one stroke over par per hole, often resulting in a score of 90 on a par 72 course. - Do professional golfers make bogeys?
Yes, even professionals occasionally score bogeys. - How can I reduce bogeys?
Improve putting, manage risks, and focus on consistency rather than power.
Conclusion
In golf, a bogey means scoring one stroke over par on a hole. While it may not be the ideal result, it is a common and manageable score for most players. For beginners and casual golfers, achieving consistent bogey golf can actually represent strong progress and steady improvement.
Understanding bogey helps players track performance, set realistic goals, and build better course strategy. you are new to golf or improving your skills, knowing how bogey fits into scoring is essential for enjoying the game and developing confidence on the course.
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