The phrase "putting in the hole" can be spelled using International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) symbols as /ˈpʊtɪŋ ɪn ðə həʊl/. The first part, "putting," is pronounced with a short "u" sound, followed by a "t" sound and emphasis on the second syllable. The second part, "in the hole," is pronounced with a short "i" sound and a "th" sound instead of a hard "d," followed by a long "o" sound and emphasis on the second syllable. Together, the phrase is used to describe successfully sinking a golf ball into the hole on a putting green.
"Putting in the hole" is an idiomatic expression commonly used in informal language and sports terminology. In a literal sense, it refers to the act of successfully guiding or inserting an object into a hole or opening. However, it can also have various figurative meanings depending on the context.
In sports, particularly billiards or golf, "putting in the hole" specifically refers to sinking a ball or making a successful shot by directing the ball into the designated hole or cup, respectively. This term is predominantly used in these sports to highlight a skilled, accurate, and successful delivery or action.
In a broader context, "putting in the hole" can metaphorically refer to completing or achieving a goal or objective. It implies the successful accomplishment or resolution of a task, whether it involves sports, work, or any other endeavor. The phrase connotes a sense of achievement, success, or fulfillment once an objective has been met. It can be used to describe personal achievements, such as finishing a project or reaching a milestone, as well as collective accomplishments or team successes.
Nevertheless, it is important to note that the phrase "putting in the hole" is largely informal and its usage is typically limited to casual conversations or sports-related contexts.