Pool glossary · Games & Rules
Legal break
What is a legal break in pool?
Under WPA rules, a legal break in 8-ball must pocket a ball or drive at least four object balls to a cushion; in 9-ball a ball must be pocketed or at least four balls must reach a cushion. Otherwise it is an illegal break.
In more detail
Consequences of an illegal break differ by game and rule set — often the opponent can accept the table or re-rack. Always confirm the event rules.
People also ask
Is scratching on the break a loss?
No. It is a foul; the incoming player gets ball in hand (WPA anywhere, some leagues behind the head string).