"Throw" in billiards refers to the subtle but significant deflection of the object ball away from its geometrically perfect cut angle, caused by the friction between the cue ball and the object ball at the moment of impact. This phenomenon is critical to understand, especially on cut shots, as it means the object ball won't go exactly where a simple "ghost ball" aim might suggest. There are two primary types: Cut-Induced Throw (CIT) occurs when there's no sidespin on the cue ball, but the off-center contact creates friction that "throws" the object ball slightly in the direction the cue ball is rubbing it. CIT is most pronounced on slower shots, especially stun shots, and at about a half-ball hit. Spin-Induced Throw (SIT), on the other hand, is caused by the application of English (sidespin) on the cue ball, which also imparts a "gearing" or "reverse gearing" effect that throws the object ball. Recognizing and compensating for throw, often by aiming to slightly "overcut" the object ball or by using specific amounts of "gearing English" to counteract it, is essential for consistent pocketing, particularly on longer or thinner cut shots.