How many syllables in “contentious”?
syllables in "contentious"
Word details
Syllables
3
conten · tious
Letters
11
c · o · n · t · e · n · t · i · o · u · s
Scrabble
13
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “contentious”
The word “contentious” contains 3 syllables, divided as conten · tious. It has 11 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "contentious" have?
"contentious" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "contentious" into syllables?
"contentious" is divided into syllables as: conten · tious.
What is the Scrabble score for "contentious"?
The Scrabble score for "contentious" is 13 points.
Using “contentious” in writing
Three-syllable words like "contentious" (conten · tious) create a rolling, flowing rhythm in verse. Depending on where the stress lands, they can form dactylic (DUM-da-da) or anapestic (da-da-DUM) feet — common in limericks, ballads, and song lyrics. In haiku, a single three-syllable word covers more than half of a short line.
In word games
In Scrabble and Words With Friends, “contentious” is worth 13 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.