How many syllables in “illegal”?
syllables in "illegal"
Word details
Syllables
3
il · le · gal
Letters
7
i · l · l · e · g · a · l
Scrabble
8
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “illegal”
The word “illegal” contains 3 syllables, divided as il · le · gal. It has 7 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "illegal" have?
"illegal" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "illegal" into syllables?
"illegal" is divided into syllables as: il · le · gal.
What is the Scrabble score for "illegal"?
The Scrabble score for "illegal" is 8 points.
Using “illegal” in writing
Three-syllable words like "illegal" (il · le · gal) 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, “illegal” 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.