Rugby’s vocabulary can confuse new fans. Here are the terms you’ll hear most often, explained simply.
Terms A to Z
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Advantage | Play continues after an offence if the other team benefits |
| Breakdown | The contest for the ball after a tackle |
| Conversion | Kick after a try for 2 points |
| Drop goal | Drop kick through the posts for 3 points |
| Garryowen | A high kick to chase (up-and-under) |
| Hooker | Front-row player who throws in at lineouts |
| Jackal | Competing for the ball on the ground after a tackle |
| Knock-on | Losing or playing the ball forward with hands or arms |
| Lineout | Restart after the ball goes into touch |
| Maul | Ball carrier held up by opponents with teammates bound on |
| Mark | Clean catch inside your own 22 with a call of “mark” for a free kick |
| Penalty try | Awarded when foul play prevents a probable try |
| Ruck | Players on their feet contesting a ball on the ground |
| Scrum | Eight-player set piece to restart play |
| Sin bin | 10-minute suspension after a yellow card |
| Touch | Out of play over the sideline |
| Try | Grounding the ball in the in-goal area for 5 points |
| Tight five | Props, hooker and locks |
Laws referenced follow World Rugby’s Laws of the Game for rugby union; rugby league, sevens and domestic competitions can differ, so check the current laws for your competition.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a ruck and a maul?
In a ruck the ball is on the ground; in a maul it’s held by the ball carrier.
What is a knock-on?
Losing or playing the ball forward with the hands or arms.
What is the tight five?
The two props, the hooker and the two locks.
