Bowls Terminology & Meaning


‘Since I started playing I have received a great deal of encouragement from members. However, I have reached the conclusion that all may not be as it seems Therefore, I have compiled a list of such comments revealing their possible interpretation’ (Trevor Deadman-Spall 2023)

What They SayWhat They Mean
Good lengthHopelessly off target
A bit more weightHopelessly short
Come the other wayYou obviously can’t play that hand
A bit heavyNearly in the ditch
Good greenNowhere near
Good tryHopeless
Good placeHopeless
We came upLucky
They came upIdiot
Same againFat chance
Jack highPitifully wide
So closeMiles away
UnluckyHopeless
We were two up Idiot
Shot woodNever heard that; no idea what it means
No changeWhy did you bother?
More greenHopeless
Nice deliveryOtherwise hopeless
Nearly did itHopeless
Just two yards short Nowhere near
ConsistentSame as previous pitiful attempt 
Been playing long?You’re playing like a beginner
Are they your own woods? Maybe try another set
It’s only a game Maybe try another game
Next timeRubbish
Good blockerOf no use whatsoever
The jack’s hereYou’ve obviously forgotten or can’t see it
Never mindHopeless
Well bowled !Aspirational comment not in my experience