Is it okay to swear on the golf course? The etiquetteist has choice words
Jack from Santa Barbara writes: I have a friend who curses on the court quite regularly; it helps him let off steam. Recently we were paired with someone who was clearly offended. Should my friend call it back?
Whoever said blasphemy is a failure of imagination clearly never put one in the trees. On the golf course, as in life, a well-timed curse can be strangely satisfying. Even The Etiquetteist admits he lets the “other f-word” slip every now and then. When a putt comes out or a drive finds the water, a quick expletive can be a cathartic release.
So yes – the urge to swear is understandable.
But is it acceptable? That depends on the context and the company. The unwritten rules of golf mirror those of everyday life: Keep it civil around children, customers or strangers, and save the spicy vocabulary for trusted friends who know you’re venting and not lashing out.
Self-directed swearing can even be funny – a golfer muttering, “Nice shot, you.” [bleeping] genius,” after throwing one into a bunker, are really just laughing at themselves. But when the language comes out: “Don’t talk to my damn ball!” — the tone changes. That’s not humor; that’s hostility.
In moderation, profanity can be a stress reliever. If it’s too much, it’s just noise – and not the good kind. The Ryder Cup hecklers who think four-letter words are witty banter? Exhibit A on crossing the border.
Bottom line: There’s a difference between expressive and outrageous, and most golfers can feel it. Read the room. If you wouldn’t say it at the dinner table, don’t shout it across the fairway.
And if you have to trigger a complete meltdown? Save it for the car ride home.
#swear #golf