Word Patterns
Master the art of word formation with common patterns, prefixes, suffixes, and word families. Boost your gameplay by understanding how words are built.
RE-
Again or back
UN-
Not or opposite
PRE-
Before
OVER-
Above or too much
DIS-
Not or opposite
INTER-
Between or among
ANTI-
Against or opposing
SUPER-
Above or beyond
TRANS-
Across or through
CIRCUM-
Around or about
PSEUDO-
False or fake
MICRO-
Small or minute
Pattern Tips
Pro Tips- • Learn common prefixes for parallel plays
- • Use suffixes to extend existing words
- • Master vowel patterns for flexibility
- • Combine patterns for higher scores
Quick Stats
InsightsPractice Exercise
InteractiveTry creating words using these patterns. Start with a base word and add prefixes or suffixes.
Pro Tips
Opening Moves
Start with common patterns like -ING or -ED to establish board presence. These familiar patterns create multiple connection points for future plays.
Defensive Play
Use pattern recognition to predict opponent's moves. If you see RE_ or UN_ setups, block potential high-scoring extensions before they happen.
Endgame Strategy
Keep short pattern combinations (-ED, -ER, -ES) in mind for clearing your rack. These versatile endings can help you play out efficiently.
Rack Management
Balance your rack with letters that fit common patterns. Keep vowels and consonants that work with -ING, -TION, or -ABLE for flexible play options.
The Scrabble Player's Blueprint for Unstoppable Strategy
Master the art of pattern recognition to dominate the board.
Every Scrabble player knows the agony of holding a Q without a U or a J with no vowels. Word patterns dissolve these roadblocks. For instance, the template A lets you slot in letters like Z to formZAX19or J forJAB12. Similarly, S___ (four-letter words ending in S) turns a stagnant rack intoFANS7,KEYS11, orBUYS9, pluralizing existing words for double points.
Start with common suffixes and prefixes. The pattern RE__ generatesRELY7,RENT5, orREAP7, while __ING yieldsJUMPING19,SING5, orBRING8. Even a simple C__T becomesCOAT6,CULT6, orCHIT9. These patterns act as scaffolding, helping you build words around high-value letters. For example, pairing Z with _Z createsFUZZ25orJAZZ29, especially potent on premium squares.
But patterns aren't just reactive—they're proactive. Memorizing A__E (e.g.,ALIVE8,AGATE6) prepares you to exploit open A and E positions. Tools like anagram solvers or pattern filters accelerate this process, but the real skill lies in training your brain to see these frameworks instinctively.
Advanced Pattern Play
Elite players don't just solve patterns—they weaponize them. Suppose you hold S, T, and a blank. The pattern S__T could becomeSLOT4,SUIT4, orSCAT6. Each choice carries strategic weight: SLOT might block a Triple Word square, while SUIT sets up future plays likeSUITED7orSUITING8.
Blanks elevate patterns to an art form. With A__E, a blank can morph intoAZURE14orAGATE6, depending on board placement. In endgames, patterns like E___ (four-letter words ending in E) help shed excess vowels—CAVE8,HYPE11, orGALE6—while pressuring opponents.
Patterns also enable psychological warfare. Place QU___ near a Triple Word square, and opponents may waste time fearingQUICK20orQUAFF20, even if you're bluffing. Similarly, using X in X patterns (e.g.,AXE9,OXO9) forces rivals to second-guess your next move.
For bingo seekers, patterns are goldmines. The template ___ING (e.g.,LEAPING10,STARING8) or ___ERS (e.g.,BESTERS9,FASTERS10) offers high-probability seven-letter plays. Pair these with a blank, and suddenly JUM becomesJUMPING19(19 points + 50 bonus).
Pro Tips for Pattern Recognition
- •Study common prefixes (RE-, UN-, IN-) and suffixes (-ING, -ED, -ERS) to expand your pattern library.
- •Practice identifying vowel-consonant patterns in high-scoring words.
- •Use pattern recognition to plan several moves ahead.
- •Master the art of using blanks strategically within common patterns.