How many syllables in “afoul”?
syllables in "afoul"
Word details
Syllables
2
a · foul
Letters
5
a · f · o · u · l
Scrabble
8
points
Scrabble letter values
Count another word
About the word “afoul”
The word “afoul” contains 2 syllables, divided as a · foul. It has 5 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "afoul" have?
"afoul" has 2 syllables.
How do you divide "afoul" into syllables?
"afoul" is divided into syllables as: a · foul.
What is the Scrabble score for "afoul"?
The Scrabble score for "afoul" is 8 points.
Using “afoul” in writing
Two-syllable words like "afoul" (a · foul) are the building blocks of iambic rhythm — the most common meter in English poetry. If the stress falls on the second syllable (da-DUM), it forms a perfect iamb, ideal for sonnets and iambic pentameter. It also fits neatly into the 5- or 7-syllable lines of a haiku.
In word games
In Scrabble and Words With Friends, “afoul” is worth 8 base points before any board multipliers. A solid mid-range score. Landing a high-value letter on a double letter square will push your total higher.