[Kim Maengnyoung's Golf English Conversation] "Driving Range and Practice Range"

This is the practice range at Augusta National, covered with natural grass.

A range is an area where soldiers practice shooting (firing range) or test various weapons such as grenades.

So, what does "driving range" mean? It could refer to a place for practicing driving cars. In golf, however, a driving range is a large practice area where golfers can hit driver tee shots and iron shots (A driving range is a facility or area where golfers can practice their golf swing). It refers to a standalone practice facility with a hitting distance of over 200 yards.

Many golf courses have a driving range attached. Recently, with the increase in the number of golfers, outdoor practice ranges are being operated as independent facilities in urban areas. In the past, there were many small and short-distance practice ranges nestled among city buildings. These days, golf simulators are very popular. The indoor golf practice area installed within them is called an indoor golf range or indoor driving range.

In the United States, there are many places where golfers can practice their shots. A practice range is usually a facility attached to a golf course. It is a place where players hit practice balls to warm up before a round. While it mainly referred to a short game practice area in the past, nowadays it is used interchangeably with driving range. Collectively, all types of practice facilities are referred to as a driving range, practice range, simply range, or practice area.

A: Could you tell me where the driving range is?

B: Sure. Go straight and turn left at the clubhouse. You will see the large practice range.

A: Thanks. Hopefully I can find it!

Written and photographed by Kim Maengnyoung, golf columnist