Rough

What does rough mean in golf?

Rough comes in varying thicknesses — first cut (intermediate rough) is slightly longer than the fairway, while primary rough can be several inches deep. Playing from thick rough reduces distance and control because grass gets trapped between the clubface and ball, decreasing spin and making trajectory unpredictable. PGA Tour courses often feature graduated rough that gets progressively longer the further the ball strays from the fairway. The USGA famously uses punishing rough at U.S. Open venues.