The "four by nine", for short, refers to a table with a playing surface of approximately 4½' wide by 9' long. This is the size most commonly used for top tournament play, and it makes for a challenging table with space for balls to spread apart.
A four by nine at home is a delightful table to shoot pool upon. If you can at all afford this size table, and the extra space taken by its girth in your home poolroom, get it.
Stay patient, beginner, and learn on this glorious playing field! When visiting your local pool hall, use four by nines only where you can. You'll be glad you did, especially if you foray into competition such as leagues, many of which nationwide use smaller than 4 x 9's. You'll feel like the table is small and easy to shoot on by comparison!
